The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) says its attempted arrest of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, was part of an ongoing investigation.
In a statement, EOCO said its officers were acting within their legal mandate and had previously invited Baffour Awuah twice in February 2026 to assist with the investigation. According to the Office, he did not honour either invitation.
“The Office has since taken steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law and the attempted arrest today represents one of the lawful steps,” EOCO stated.
The arrest was not completed after the situation escalated at the Accra High Court. EOCO said its officers decided against taking further action because they believed a counter-action 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,” the Office said.
EOCO also said it had identified two people who allegedly helped Baffour Awuah leave the scene based on video footage of the incident. It said their conduct was being assessed and any further action would be taken in accordance with the law.
Baffour Awuah later went to the precincts of Parliament, which is currently on recess, to seek sanctuary. EOCO said it recognises the constitutional privileges and immunities enjoyed by MPs.
However, the Office stressed that parliamentary membership does not automatically stop an investigation or place an individual beyond the reach of the law.
“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 stated.
EOCO said the investigation remains ongoing and that it will review the circumstances surrounding the incident, including available video footage, before deciding on its next steps.
