The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) says its attempted arrest of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah on Wednesday, September 23, formed part of lawful steps to secure his attendance in connection with an ongoing investigation.
The clarification follows the circulation of a video on social media showing an altercation between EOCO officers and the MP shortly after he left the Accra High Court premises.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, EOCO said it had invited Mr Baffour Awuah on two occasions in February 2026 to assist with an investigation, but he did not honour the invitations.
The Office said it subsequently took steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law, describing Wednesday’s attempted arrest as part of those measures.
“EOCO wishes to clarify that its officers, acting in the lawful discharge of their statutory responsibilities, attempted to effect the arrest of Hon. Baffour today, 23 September 2026, in connection with an ongoing investigation,” the statement said.
According to EOCO, the attempted arrest was not completed after the situation escalated and officers determined that continuing could have endangered public safety.
“During today’s attempted arrest, the situation escalated, and the arrest was not successfully completed as officers assessed that a counter action would have endangered public safety,” it said.
EOCO also said Mr Baffour Awuah subsequently went to the precincts of Parliament to seek sanctuary, although Parliament is currently on recess.
The Office said it recognises and respects the constitutional privileges and immunities afforded to Members of Parliament and would conduct its operations within the Constitution and applicable laws.
It, however, stressed that membership of Parliament does not automatically bring an investigation to an end or place an individual beyond the reach of the law.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Membership of Parliament does not, by itself, bring an investigation to an end or place an individual beyond the reach of the law,” EOCO said.
“At the same time, EOCO will not take any step that is inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or any other protection provided by the Constitution,” it added.
EOCO maintained that its investigation involving Mr Baffour Awuah remains active.
The Office said it would review the circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s incident, including available video evidence, before deciding on its next steps.
“EOCO remains determined to discharge its statutory responsibilities while respecting the Constitution, the rule of law and the institutional privileges of Parliament,” the statement added.
