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Tag: EOCO

  • Docket on Cecilia Dapaah to be returned to OSP over lack of evidence – EOCO

    Docket on Cecilia Dapaah to be returned to OSP over lack of evidence – EOCO

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has announced its intention to return the docket concerning former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    This decision comes after the Office of the Attorney General advised against initiating money laundering investigations into Cecilia Dapaah. The Attorney General’s office cited the OSP’s failure to establish evidence of corruption or corruption-related offences as the reason for its advice.

    Speaking at the 14th Commonwealth Regional Conference of Heads of Anti-corruption Agencies in Africa, Executive Director of EOCO, Maame Yaa Tiwa Addo-Danquah, reiterated that there was nothing her office could do in the absence of evidence supporting such investigations.

    “If you read the A-G’s advice, whatever that we would have done had already been directed at the police CID. And like he said this morning, when you investigate a case and you do not find anything, we should be bold enough to come and tell the public that for this case, even though I suspected this at the day, that wasn’t what came out; we should be bold the Ghanaian.

    “So, we cannot continue to be fishing like you don’t even know what you are looking for. You just go about looking for something that you know that you are not even sure. 

    “So, what I am going to do is that with the A-G’s advice, I will send the docket that we received from the OSP to him that there is nothing in it,” she stated. 

    On May 1, the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice advised against conducting money laundering investigations into the activities of former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).

    The Attorney General’s office determined that the request made by the Special Prosecutor’s office to EOCO to initiate money laundering investigations into Cecilia Dapaah’s affairs lacked a valid basis.

  • We didn’t clear Cecilia Dapaah of corruption-related offences – OSP

    We didn’t clear Cecilia Dapaah of corruption-related offences – OSP

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has refuted claims that it cleared former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, before transferring her case to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).

    The OSP investigated Mrs Dapaah for alleged corruption and corruption-related offences after reports emerged that their domestic staff stole millions of local and foreign currencies, along with other personal effects belonging to the former minister and her husband.

    After months of investigation, the OSP closed its case and handed it over to EOCO, citing that the offence largely fell within the realm of money laundering.

    The OSP stated that it may reopen the case if further evidence supporting corruption investigations is uncovered.

    However, EOCO sent the OSP’s transferred docket to the Attorney General’s office for advice on whether to conduct investigations. The AG’s Office advised EOCO to halt investigations, stating that the file lacked an investigative report and additional documentation to support a money laundering prosecution.

    The AG also mentioned that the police are investigating the source of funding by Cecilia Dapaah, suggesting that there was no need for EOCO to continue with the case.

    In a separate statement, the Attorney General’s office accused the OSP of failing to provide EOCO with sufficient information regarding its collaboration with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) for further investigations.

    In an interview with Joy News, the Director for Strategy, Research, and Communications at the OSP, Mr. Samuel Appiah Darko, clarified that his office did not clear Cecilia Dapaah of corruption-related offences.

    He explained that the OSP closed its investigation after determining that the offence was largely related to money laundering.

    Mr. Darko also noted that Dapaah could not reasonably explain all the seized monies from her home, as her explanations were found to be untrue after investigations.

    He maintained that EOCO did not request the FBI investigation report, despite joint representatives from the two agencies working on the file transfer.

    “We want to make it very clear that EOCO did not request for the FBI report. Even if they did, the FBI report has a lot of confidentiality clauses that were directed particularly to the OSP and you can’t just give it to another agency because you have transferred the case. There ought to be a lot of inter-agency collaboration and clearance. So if it had happened, we may have triggered the clearance clauses so that either we are cleared by FBI or FBI sends the report directly to EOCO.”

    He stated that the OSP referred the case to EOCO, providing all relevant documentation, including caution statements from over 20 suspects in America, Accra, and Kumasi.

    Additionally, other information, such as relatives of Madam Dapaah claiming the seized monies and some jewelry in her house were family heirlooms, was also provided. These documents were intended to assist EOCO in conducting its own independent investigation into the financial transactions involved.

    “The OSP should be considered as a whistleblower to EOCO. So as a whistle-blower, we gave EOCO platinum information. Ordinarily, you will not even find other agencies giving such information to EOCO,” Mr. Darko noted in the interview.

    The OSP’s Director for Strategy, Research, and Communications gave further reasons on why his outfit referred the case to EOCO instead of proceeding with the alleged money laundering probe.

    “Our referral is not just in respect of a transaction in America. Also, we were not conducting money laundering investigation, we were conducting corruption investigation. We are of the opinion that, we had all it takes to send that referral to EOCO because there was no way we could have proceeded and then investigated and write a report on money laundering and send it to EOCO for onward transfer to the Attorney General. We only referred a matter to EOCO as whistle-blowers for EOCO to investigate…We cannot instruct EOCO on what they should do,” he added.

  • CDD slams govt over Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    CDD slams govt over Cecilia Dapaah’s case

    Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has condemned the government’s handling of the money laundering case involving former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah.

    CDD-Ghana voiced apprehension regarding the government’s response to scandals implicating its associates.

    In a letter addressed to the Economic and Organised Crime (EOCO), the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General advised against further pursuing money laundering investigations into Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s activities.

    In a statement released on Friday, May 3, 2024, CDD-Ghana noted, “The abrupt and inconclusive manner in which this matter has been ended fits a pattern in terms of the Nana Akufo Addo Administration’s general attitude and response to scandals, allegations or reported incidents of criminal conduct, corruption or other financial malfeasance involving persons closely associated with the Government or ruling party.”

    CDD-Ghana believes that the advice signals the end of the case. The AG has assured that the case will continue.

    “The upshot of the A-G’s advice is that the Cecilia Dapaah matter is over. Case closed. Once again, a high-profile case of suspected or alleged criminal conduct implicating a politically influential person has been terminated abruptly without proper credible resolution or closure. It is not clear in what way the forced termination of further investigation into this matter by the A-G serves either the public interest or helps the reputation of the target of the investigation.”

    CDD-Ghana also questioned EOCO’s failure to conduct its investigations.

    “The action of EOCO in requesting directions from the A-G without first acting on the referral from the OSP to initiate its own investigation of the matter seems oddly contrived. Having been provided with a docket containing various exhibits, statements by twenty or so individuals, as well as the bare fact of the quantum of the monies found in the properties associated with Mrs. Dapaah and her spouse, one would have expected EOCO to proceed with its own investigations, instead of seeking the A-G’s legal advice on prosecution at that early pre-investigative stage.”

    This suggestion followed the Special Prosecutor’s office’s determination that the discovery of over 1 million dollars in Dapaah’s residence exceeded its jurisdiction, prompting the recommendation for money laundering investigations.

  • Cecilia Dapaah’s scandal still under investigation – Office of AG

    Cecilia Dapaah’s scandal still under investigation – Office of AG


    Spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office, Isaac Wilberforce Mensah, has refuted claims that the office had concluded investigations into the scandal involving former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

    This rebuttal follows the office’s advice to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) against initiating money laundering investigations into Dapaah’s affairs, based on the Attorney General’s determination that the request from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) lacked merit.

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, pledged to resume investigations into the Dapaah scandal if elected President, in a recent statement.

    In an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News, Mr Mensah clarified that the office’s advice did not signal the end of investigations. He stressed that neither the OSP nor the FBI had uncovered any offense.

    Mr Mensah emphasized that the Attorney General’s actions did not preclude further investigation, as the police were already examining the matter.

    “What the AG has done is not to close any door for investigation. We have not closed any door for investigation. The AG has indicated already that the police are investigating this matter.”

    “Even most of the documents that the OSP relied on for its investigations were documents procured from the police or obtained from the Ghana Police Service. So how has the AG or the Office of the AG by this letter closed investigations. It is thus certainly not what the letter sought to suggest.”

    He pointed out that many of the documents used by the OSP were obtained from the Ghana Police Service, indicating ongoing inquiries.

    Regarding Mahama’s statement about reopening investigations, Mr Mensah affirmed the office’s commitment to serving the country, transcending political administrations.

    He stated that if investigations lead to prosecution, the office would pursue it, but emphasized that no crime had been established at present.

  • You must resign for failing to probe Cecilia Dapaah’s money laundering case – Martin Kpebu tells EOCO boss

    You must resign for failing to probe Cecilia Dapaah’s money laundering case – Martin Kpebu tells EOCO boss

    Legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has strongly urged the resignation of the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, citing mishandling in the investigation of former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    Mr Kpebu criticized EOCO’s absence during the return of funds to Dapaah by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), suggesting negligence or mismanagement on EOCO’s part.

    He pointed out the conspicuousness of EOCO’s absence considering the OSP’s public announcement of returning the money and transferring the case file to EOCO.

    The call for resignation stems from advice received from the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, advising against EOCO initiating a money laundering probe into Dapaah’s case.

    The Attorney General’s office highlighted shortcomings in the collaborative investigation report between the OSP and the FBI not being submitted to EOCO, and EOCO’s unanswered request for findings from its investigation.

    The Attorney General’s office noted that the docket provided to EOCO lacked comprehensive details, containing only the OSP’s transmittal letter, the diary of action, statements from the investigation, and correspondence with other institutions.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, Kpebu argued that such oversights undermine the investigation’s credibility and raise doubts about EOCO’s ability and commitment to pursuing the case. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, insisting that Maame Tiwaa should resign without excuses.

    Echoing Kpebu’s sentiments, anti-corruption advocate Vitus Azeem expressed disappointment with the Attorney General’s advice to EOCO. He argued that the case should not have necessitated the Attorney General’s intervention and criticized the Special Prosecutor for not providing EOCO with all the necessary information, which was used as a basis to deem further investigation unwarranted. Azeem suggested that withholding information could imply either a subpar investigation or an unwillingness to allow EOCO to continue the case with the available evidence, a common issue in high-profile investigations involving multiple agencies.

    “EOCO’s Maame Tiwaa Addo Danquah should be on her way out of that office…she should be out and let us not play with it. This thing is too elementary for us to tolerate this. Kissi Agyebeng came out publicly to say ‘I am handing over this file, I am handing over the cash.’

    “So EOCO should have been present to collect that money. There can be no excuses…there can be no ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ about it, that is why we are calling on Maame Tiwaa to resign,” he stated.

  • EOCO didn’t do much probing into Cecilia Dapaah’s case – GII

    EOCO didn’t do much probing into Cecilia Dapaah’s case – GII

    The Executive Director of Ghana Integrity Initiatives (GII), Mary Awelana Addah, has expressed that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) could have conducted a more thorough investigation into the case involving former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah.

    This comes after the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice advised EOCO against initiating money laundering investigations into the matter.

    In response to a request for advice from EOCO, the Attorney General’s office, in a letter dated April 25, 2024, noted that the OSP did not submit the report on its collaborative investigation to EOCO and has not responded to EOCO’s request for its findings.

    Speaking on JoyNews AM show on May 2, Mrs. Addah suggested that while EOCO may rely on the Attorney General’s Office for legal advice, it could have continued its investigation independently until it was necessary to seek advice for prosecution.

    She emphasized the importance of a thorough and independent investigation into allegations of wrongdoing by public officials, suggesting that EOCO should have pursued the investigation to its logical conclusion before consulting the Attorney General’s Office.

    “But then it is what it is; it is very unfortunate; let me not mince words at all. The impression this is creating is that we can always get away with anything, particularly when it comes to issues around allegations of corruption because we would use the weakness in the regime or legal regime to get away with them,” she said.

    “And this goes to confirm what the President said because he was speaking from the point of authority; perhaps our laws were not robust.”

    Mrs. Addah suggested that EOCO could have conducted a more thorough investigation into Cecilia Dapaah’s case by scrutinizing her lifestyle, which could have provided valuable information and evidence.

    She emphasized that lifestyle audits are a crucial tool in investigating allegations of corruption and misappropriation of funds. EOCO should have employed this method to ensure a more comprehensive and transparent investigation.

    “It is sad, but it is what it is from our current legislation and our current work. Unfortunately, we believe EOCO could have taken this up from another angle when you look at their laws.

    “When you look at Section 1(3) of the current anti-money laundering law, you would see that they could have done a lifestyle,” she stated.

  • Prof. Adei’s corrupt road contract claims against Roads Ministry unsubstantiated – EOCO

    Prof. Adei’s corrupt road contract claims against Roads Ministry unsubstantiated – EOCO

    The Ministry of Roads and Highways has announced that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has completed its investigations into alleged bribery and corruption within the ministry.

    This development follows a petition from the Ministry to EOCO regarding claims made by former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Prof. Stephen Adei. Prof. Adei had alleged that bribes determined who was awarded road contracts.

    In a press release dated April 12, 2024, the Roads and Highways Ministry stated that the investigations had cleared it of any wrongdoing. The Ministry also noted that the allegations were a broad generalization of perceived corruption in the country.

    “EOCO has determined that ‘from the totality of the available information to the office, Prof. Stephen Adei’s comments were found to be unfortunate and general within the context of perceived corruption in the country’. 

    “EOCO, therefore, concludes that the matter is disposed of as unsubstantiated and highly presumptuous,” the statement read.

    In October 2023, Prof. Adei expressed concern about corruption in the awarding of road contracts, claiming that individuals seeking contracts were told they must pay 1 million upfront to secure them.

    The Ministry of Roads and Highways responded to these allegations by calling them surprising and asserting that the process for awarding road contracts is transparent, competitive, and adheres to legal procedures. They requested an investigation by EOCO into the matter.

    In support of the Ministry’s position, a group of road contractors in Ghana denied Prof. Adei’s claims, stating that they had never encountered such a demand for an upfront payment of GH¢1 million. They emphasized that the awarding of contracts is well-documented and transparent, making it difficult for corrupt practices to occur.

    The Roads and Highways Ministry expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the investigation. They reassured the public of their commitment to transparency and due process in awarding contracts.

    The Ministry assured the public of its commitment to transparency and due process in the award of contracts.

  • We must all come together to fight crime – EOCO

    We must all come together to fight crime – EOCO

    In order to combat serious and organized crimes, all stakeholders must work together, according to Leo Anthony Siamah, Deputy Head of Legal and Prosecution at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    Siamah emphasized that resolving these issues calls for more than just investigations and prosecutions and emphasized the significance of raising public awareness of the difficulties and the need for coordinated action while participating in a Joy FM discussion on defending Ghana’s stability against serious and organized crime threats in the upcoming 2024 elections and beyond.

    “These are not foreign concepts,” Siamah stated, debunking the misconception that organised crime is limited to certain regions.

    He highlighted that Ghana’s reputation as a transit point for drug trafficking suggests the presence of organized criminal groups within the country.

    Identifying weaknesses in Ghana’s legal framework, particularly regarding regulations on political campaign financing, Siamah stressed the necessity for stricter laws and enforcement to prevent illegal money from influencing political processes.

    He pointed out gaps in existing laws that allow for the evasion of regulations, emphasizing the importance of robust enforcement to effectively address these issues.

    Siamah referenced recent cases where the absence of comprehensive legal mechanisms hindered prosecution efforts, further emphasizing the necessity for legislation that tackles unexplained wealth and holds individuals responsible for illicit financial activities.

    Referring to a 2018 report by the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), which highlighted a significant rise in party finance expenditures for parliamentarians between 2012 and 2016, Siamah stressed the importance of enhanced accountability in political financing. He urged stakeholders to demand transparency and accountability to prevent the misuse of funds in political endeavors.

    Mrs. Mary Awelana Addah, the Executive Director of Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), stressed the immediate necessity for combatting corruption to safeguard Ghana’s stability against serious and organized crime threats in the upcoming 2024 elections and beyond.

    She underscored the widespread prevalence of corruption in Ghanaian society, characterizing it as a “multi-faceted monster” that continuously adapts and evolves.

    Mrs. Addah voiced apprehension regarding the growing commercialization of elections and the involvement of criminal activities in financing political campaigns.

    “We cannot keep quiet. We need to talk about the issue,” Addah asserted, pointing out that corruption undermines the democratic process and erodes public trust in governance institutions.

    She observed that politicians are growing more alarmed by the impact of illicit funds on elections.

    Bringing focus to the concept of state capture, Mrs. Addah cautioned that criminal elements were exerting unwarranted influence on political decision-making. She referenced instances of illicit activities, such as illegal mining (galamsey), being employed to fund political figures and manipulate government policies.

    She stressed the importance of increased transparency and accountability in political financing to curb the infiltration of criminal funds into the electoral process. Additionally, she urged policymakers to tackle the underlying causes of corruption and bolster anti-corruption efforts to protect Ghana’s stability and integrity.

    “We cannot gain anything at all if we allow corrupt practices to undermine our democracy,” she said, and called for collective action to combat corruption and uphold the principles of good governance ahead of the 2024 elections.

    Dr. Kojo Pumpuni Asante, the Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), cautioned about the widespread threat posed by serious and organized crime (SOC) in Ghana, urging increased vigilance in anticipation of the 2024 elections.

    Dr. Asante outlined various activities falling under serious and organized crime, spanning from illegal fishing and small-scale mining to fraudulent schemes commonly referred to as “419” or “fraud boys.” He underscored the concerning prevalence of illicit activities in the country, including drug trafficking, with Ghana serving as a significant transit point for drug shipments from South America to Europe.

    Expressing unease over the influx of unexplained wealth and sudden accumulation of assets by individuals, particularly within the political sphere, Dr. Asante cautioned that such actions could undermine governance, perpetuate policy inconsistencies, and compromise decision-making processes.

    “The alarm that we are trying to sound is that this type of activity has a debilitating effect on governance,” Dr. Asante stated, adding, “Policy coherence is compromised when decision-makers are beholden to criminal elements or are forced to serve as protectors of illegal activities.”

    In addition to highlighting the risks of resisting criminal influence, Dr. Asante emphasized the need for people to remain vigilant in the fight against serious and organized crime.

    She also warned of the possibility of terrorist financing being infiltrated through illegal activities like drug trafficking and illegal gold mining.

    “We need to pay very close attention to this, otherwise, we will wake up one day and it will be much harder to fight this,” Dr. Asante cautioned.

  • Assin Fosu hotspot for serious organised crime – EOCO

    Assin Fosu hotspot for serious organised crime – EOCO

    Assin Fosu, located in the Central region, has been identified as a significant hub for serious organized crimes in Ghana.

    The Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) has noted that criminal groups in the area operate with a well-established leadership pattern.

    Leo Anthony Siamah, Deputy Head of Legal and Prosecution at EOCO, highlighted that these criminal groups primarily focus on two areas of crime: human trafficking and bank fraud.

    “They have a more structured look. They have about three or four layers in terms of leadership and hierarchy where there is a reporting direction in terms of flowing from the bottom to the top and there is control,” he said.

    Mr. Siamah acknowledged that a major challenge in combating these criminal groups is their ties to influential individuals, including politicians.

    “So you realize that, we bust a ring, we are conducting investigation and certain caliber of persons show up. We are talking about people who claim I’m from here, I’m from there.

    “When I say I’m from here, we are talking about maybe politicians, I have this politician’s number. I have this person’s number. I have this person’s contact. And then you will realize that they try to create a connection as to why he should have that person’s contact. These are some of the problems we are facing,” he said.

    In addition to their links to influential figures, the Deputy Head of Legal and Prosecution at EOCO highlighted that the criminal groups have begun utilizing cryptocurrency to launder money into the country.

    He expressed concern that some Ghanaians are involved in cryptocurrency transactions, leading to various issues.

    “If you are aware too, there is this Bank of Ghana directive that says that anyone or anybody entering through our entry points in the country should declare any amount in excess of ten thousand dollars for instance, that used to be very easy to enforce .”

    “If you are looking at the cryptocurrency problem where somebody has laundered money in terms of huge amounts of money in his wallet, how are we able to identify what he is holding?, he stressed.

  • I doubt EOCO will find celebrities who are criminals, a lot are suffering – Okyeame Kwame

    I doubt EOCO will find celebrities who are criminals, a lot are suffering – Okyeame Kwame

    Ghanaian musician Okyeame Kwame has refuted claims suggesting that Ghanaian celebrities lead extravagant lives, asserting instead that it is politicians who flaunt opulence.

    In response to the Economic and Organised Crime Office’s (EOCO) plan to scrutinize celebrities and individuals suspected of possessing unexplained wealth, Okyeame Kwame emphasized that it is politicians, not celebrities, who indulge in lavish living.

    “I have been in the celebrity space for 20 something years, I do not think they will find any artiste who are ‘criminals’ or many celebs and film makers because these people are suffering,” he said during an interview with Berla Mundi on TV3’s New Day.

    He added, “It is very difficult to be in this industry as an influencer or artiste and then just by that be able to survive. I have not seen celebrities in Ferraris or Maybachs or Porsche cars or multimillion dollar mansions. Where are they? Show me.”

    He emphasized that most celebrities face financial challenges due to insufficient earnings, and any occasional luxuries are usually funded from their savings.

    Contrary to focusing on celebrities, Okyeame Kwame urged EOCO to direct its attention towards politicians, highlighting instances where civil servants on modest salaries are seen driving high-end cars.

    “We are going to start investigating celebrities and in less than 30 days, they will be done because it is obvious that there are no or very few celebrities who are enjoying unwarranted wealth,” he emphasized.

    While applauding EOCO’s efforts to uphold integrity, Okyeame Kwame stressed the importance of aligning financial laws with international standards to account for discrepancies in individuals’ financial profiles.

    EOCO’s decision to tighten scrutiny follows the recent guilty plea by Ghanaian social media influencer and musician, Mona Montrage, known as Hajia4reall, in a $2 million romance scam case.

  • Focus on politicians! – Okyeame Kwame ‘challenges’ EOCO’s intended celebrity lifestyle audit

    Focus on politicians! – Okyeame Kwame ‘challenges’ EOCO’s intended celebrity lifestyle audit

    Award-winning musician Okyeame Kwame has suggested that the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) redirect its focus to auditing the lifestyle of politicians rather than celebrities.

    In an interview with TV3, the musician argued that it is uncommon to find celebrities leading luxurious lives, as these individuals strive to succeed in Ghana’s unstable economy.

    According to him, politicians are the ones who often escape the economic challenges by resorting to dubious means to sustain their lifestyles.

    “I have been in the celebrity space for over 20 years, and I don’t think they will find any ‘criminals’ among artistes or many celebrities and filmmakers because these people are struggling. It is very challenging to be in this industry as an influencer or artist and just survive based on that. I have not seen celebrities in Ferraris, Maybachs, Porsche cars, or multimillion-dollar mansions. Where are they? Show me one.

    “However, the people that I have seen living lavishly are politicians. I have seen civil servants making maybe ₵14,000 a month driving S-class cars,” he told Berla Mundi on TV3’s New Day on Monday.

    Okyeame Kwame’s comments follow the Authority’s declaration of its intention to scrutinize lifestyle audits on celebrities and individuals whose wealth raises eyebrows.

    EOCO’s latest approach aims to address the surge in unexplained enrichment and illicit wealth-generating activities within the country.


    EOCO’s focus on celebrities comes after Ghanaian social media influencer and musician Mona Montrage, also known as Hajia4reall, pleaded guilty in a $2 million romance scam case.

  • Celebrities living lavishly are few – Okyeame Kwame on EOCO’s auditing of celebrity lifestyles

    Celebrities living lavishly are few – Okyeame Kwame on EOCO’s auditing of celebrity lifestyles

    Ghanaian rapper Okyeame Kwame has responded to the announcement made by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) regarding the auditing of the lifestyles of celebrities and other individuals.

    This move comes after Hajia4Real admitted guilt to charges related to a $2 million romance scam. EOCO stated their intention to scrutinize the lifestyles of celebrities and individuals suspected of acquiring wealth through unjust means.

    “We are leading the charge by ourselves, making certain proposals for the amendment of the law to align with international standards. This ensures that any gaps in your financial profile are substantiated by your earnings.

    “Any disparities must be clarified to law enforcement, and the burden of proof rests on the individual to explain the origin of those resources,” the head of Administration and Investigations at EOCO, Edward Cudjoe disclosed to JoyNews in an interview.

    Reacting to this Okyeame Kwame said celebrities are not living lavish lifestyles like politicians.

    “I have been in the celebrity space for 20 something years, I do not think they will find any artiste who are “criminals” or many celebs and film makers because these people are suffering. It is very difficult to be in this industry as an influencer or artiste and then just by that be able to survive. I have not seen celebrities in Ferraris or Maybachs or Porsche cars or multimillion dollar mansions. Where are they? Show me one.

    “However, the people that I have seen living lavishly are politicians. I have seen civil servants who make maybe ₵14000 a month and driving S-class,” he told Berla Mundi on TV3’s New Day.

    “They are going to start investigating celebrities and in less than 30 days, they will be done because it is obvious that there are no or very few celebrities who are enjoying unwarranted wealth,” Okyeame Kwame added.

  • Opuni trial: Court finds out how Adu-Ampomah hid positive test result on lithovit

    Opuni trial: Court finds out how Adu-Ampomah hid positive test result on lithovit

    In court, it was revealed that the COCOBOD Committee, chaired by Dr. Yaw Adu-Ampomah, was formed after the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) informed him that a test by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) had confirmed lithovit as a fertilizer.

    This committee, which did not invite the accused, Dr. Stephen Opuni and Seidu Agongo, based its findings on disputed reports, excluding the positive GSA test result. The EOCO investigation, however, was ongoing during the committee’s work.

    The EOCO investigation, led by Mr. Paul Agyei Gyang, included a positive GSA test result, known to Dr. Adu-Ampomah, who was then the Deputy Chief Executive of COCOBOD. Despite this, the COCOBOD committee, formed in 2017, did not consider this information.

    Mr. Gyang confirmed that the first negative GSA test was done in an inappropriate department, leading to a second test in the correct department, which confirmed lithovit as a fertilizer. This discrepancy in test results was not addressed by the COCOBOD committee.

    Seidu Agongo rejected the first test result and requested a second test, which confirmed lithovit’s status as a fertilizer. This information was not shared with the COCOBOD committee, leading to questions about the committee’s findings and process.

    Overall, the revelations in court raise concerns about the handling of the lithovit case and the credibility of the COCOBOD committee’s report.

    The head of the Material Science Department of GSA, Mrs Baah Mantey, wrote in her statement to investigators that, from the second scientific report, “the results revealed that that sample contained some amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and so the sample was identified as fertilizer.”

    “Please tell the court if you know. Was the complainant informed about the result of the second test?” Benson Nutsukpui asked the EOCO investigator.

    “Yes, my Lord, as I told the court about the people, he himself was equally informed,” the witness replied.

    Read excerpts of the proceedings on February 21, 2024

    Q. Who was the complainant in the matter that was brought before EOCO?

    A. My Lord, if my memory serves me right, deputy chief executive in charge of agronomy and quality control. In the person of Dr. Adu Ampomah.

    Q. When you said that your executive director had discussions with the deputy chief executive- agronomy and quality control- on the second test, who was that person who was the deputy chief executive- agronomy and quality control- at COCOBOD then?

    A. My Lord, it is Dr Adu Ampomah

    Q. You also told this court that after you received the second report, the directorate brought the scientists together; that is correct?

    A. Yes, my Lord, that is correct.

    Q. Who else was in this discussion with the scientists?

    A. My Lord, the head of the chemistry department of the University of Ghana

    Q. And any other person?

    A. That is all I can remember for now.

    Q. Sir, did the directorate of EOCO have the occasion to communicate this second test to other interested parties?

    A. My Lord, if anything of that happened, it should be at the management level of which I may not be privy.

    Q. Please tell the court if you know. Was the complainant informed about the result of the second test?

    A. Yes, my Lord, as I told the court about the people, he himself was equally informed

    Q. Was he invited?

    A. Yes.

    Q. To where?

    A. To EOCO office.

    Q. What was he invited to the head office for?

    A. My Lord, as an interested party, it was only reasonable that management invited him to let him know what the results were

    Q. Sir, cast your mind back, this invitation to Dr. Adu Ampomah, was it on or before your meeting with the scientists?

    A. I think initially, the scientists were invited to explain the reason they had two different results. I think thereafter, some few days or so, he was also invited.

    Q. Can you recall around what date the scientists were invited?

    A. It’s unfortunate, my Lord, I can’t recall

    Q. Please look at exhibit H, page 3, just at the top, the first two lines, the executive summary; it says that a committee was constituted in October 2017; that is correct?

    A. Yes, my Lord.

    Q. Please what date was that committee constituted?

    A. From the report October 4, 2017.

    Q. As of October 4, 2017, this matter was under investigation by EOCO

    A. Yes, my Lord.

    Q. Tell this court on that date, October 4, 2017, did you receive the second report of the testing at EOCO?

    A. Yes, My Lord, the second report came in somewhere in June or July 2017

    Q. Sir, what is the date of that report exhibit 133?

    A. July 26, 2017.

    Q. So, as of October 4, 2017, EOCO has received this report?

    A. Yes, my Lord

    Q. And also discussed it with the scientists as of October 4, 2017

    A. Yes, my Lord

    Q. From the nature of the operations of EOCO how long after July 26, 2017, EOCO would have to inform the interested parties the results of the second test?

    A. By our operations, as soon as the report comes, parties have to be informed.

    Q. So tell this court by October 4, 2017, was Dr Adu Ampomah informed about the result of the second test?

    A. I believe so, my Lord.

    Q. You have exhibit H, look on the cover; it is dated November 7, 2017; that is correct?

    A. Yes, my Lord, that is correct.

    Q. Look at page 106 of Exhibit H. The two reports from the standards authority and the University of Ghana, which concluded that Lithovit they examined did not have the necessary ingredients are in that report, which is Exhibit H; that is true?

    A. Yes, my Lord, it is true

    Q. Take some few minutes and glance through and see if the report exhibit 133 A2/A3 (the second test result from Ghana Standards Authority) is in it or captured in exhibit H

    A. My Lord, after having a cursory look at the document, it is not there; I only found the first report from Ghana Standards Authority, which was forwarded to EOCO on June 5, 2017, and another cover letter from the University of Ghana Chemistry Department.

    Q. After your cursory look at exhibit H, you found that exhibit 133 is not in it; that is correct?

    A. Yes, my Lord, exactly so.

    Q. And look at page 3 of Exhibit H, and tell this honourable court who is the chairman of the committee that produced Exhibit H?

    A. My Lord, Dr Adu Ampomah, deputy chief executive- agronomy and quality control- was the chairman.

    Q. At all times that EOCO was doing [an] investigation into this matter, who was their contact point, or who were they reporting to at COCOBOD?

    A. Dr Adu Ampomah.

    Q. Tell this honourable court if, back in 2017, you personally or the investigative team knew about the existence of this committee.

    A. My Lord, I’m for the first time hearing of this committee. I can’t tell if management was informed.

    Q. EOCO handed over the docket to the police in June 2018. Is that the case?

    A. My Lord, the docket was handed to the police, but I can’t remember whether June or July.

    Q. But can you remember the year?

    A. Somewhere in 2018 or 17, there about,

    Q. Yesterday, we talked about the investigator’s statement you wrote. Was the handing over the docket earlier or after the investigator’s statement you wrote?

    A. My Lord, the statement was together with the docket.

    Q. If I told you that your statement was written on June 15 2018, when would you have handed over the docket?

    A. 2018, my Lord

    Q. By the time you were handing over the docket to the police, did EOCO receive that report, exhibit H on EOCO’s file?

    A. My Lord, the investigative team did not receive anything like that; I don’t know if management did.

    Q. By the mode of operations in EOCO, if management received a copy, would it be minuted down to the investigating team?

    A. Exactly so, my Lord.

    Q. What documents were handed over to the police from EOCO?

    A. My Lord, we had directive to hand over all dockets involving COCOBOD cases of which this docket was part, and in this docket, complainant, witnesses and suspects and all relevant documents which we have gathered, including test reports, i.e. the three test reports received from the scientists.

    Q. So, EOCO would consider exhibit 133 relevant on the docket?

    A. yes, my Lord, you are right.

    Q. On March 15, 2021, under cross-examination, Mr Thomas Prempeh Mercer told the court that the docket that the police received had only two test reports, the ones that had only negative results. Would that be correct?

    A. My Lord, I would be surprised.

    Q. I know you would be surprised, but I’m asking if EOCO did not give the police exhibit 133.

    A. My Lord, the report was inclusive

    Q. Mr Thomas Prempeh Mercer indeed admitted reading your investigator’s statement; tell this honourable court: did he or anybody on the police investigative team contact you to find out about exhibit 133, which you wrote about in your statement?

    A. No, my Lord, nobody contacted me.

    Q. From June 2018 till today, you have remained in the employment of EOCO that is correct?

    A. Yes, my Lord.

    Q. Has your office sent you any signal or notice to request an explanation as to why exhibit 133 not being on the police docket?

    A. My Lord, nobody has contacted me.

    Q. In the normal cause of investigation, an investigator’s statement, which you wrote, would be the beginning of the investigative work of the one taking over

    A. Yes, my Lord, you are right

    Q. And in normal investigative work, if you wrote about another test result and if it can’t be found, you would be contacted. That is also true?

    A. Ye, my Lord.

    Q. Can you explain how come you were never contacted in respect of investigations you did and exhibit 133?

    A. My Lord, it would be very difficult for me to explain

    Q. Tell this court what is your impression about this development in relation to exhibit 133 that I have taken you through this morning?

    A. My Lord, as I have told this court, I’m only surprised, but I can’t explain

    Q. Sir, EOCO took statements from a lot of people; that is correct?

    A. That is correct.

    Q. Sir, cast your mind back to [the] file you took statements from people?

    A. Yes, my Lord, a lot of people.

    Q. And it included farmers?

    A. Yes, my Lord.

    Q. Would the name Obeng Emmanuel or Emmanuel Obeng come to mind?

    A. The name I might have forgotten, but we had interactions with farmers

    Q. Do you remember the number of farmers you took statements from?

    A. The farmers we took statements from, we had them through Dr. Adu Ampomah

    Q. When you say you had them through Dr Adu Ampomah, what exactly do you mean?

    A. It means my Lord, he mentioned them as those people we could contact

    Q. Did the investigative team make any request to A2 and A3 to bring you farmers who used the product?

    A. My Lord, I don’t think we did

    Q. Apart from Dr. Adu Ampomah’s witnesses, did the investigative team find farmers on your own to question about the product?

    A. I think so

    Q. Can you remember how many you got?

    A. My Lord, two or three

    Q. Did you take statements from them?

    A. Some we contacted said they were scared to give statements, some did not give statements. We had statements from about two or three, if my memory serves me right

    Q. Can you remember whether two or three were the ones you got through Dr Adu Ampomah or not?

    A. My Lord, I can’t remember

    Q. As an investigative team, how often are your meetings with Dr Adu Ampomah?

    A. My Lord, as the deputy executive director in charge of agronomy and quality control, most of the time, he was dealing directly with the executive director of EOCO; we would only go there when there was the need and directives given to us

    Q. How many times did you have directives as an investigative team you went there as an investigative to meet Dr Adu Ampomah during the course of this investigation?

    A. My Lord, we were not dealing with this case; we were dealing with about 8 different dockets involving COCOBOD, so when there is a directive to meet him on any of those dockets, we did, not only on this docket.

    Q. On all these, how often would you say during the course of the investigation you were seeing Adu-Ampomah?

    A. My Lord, I can’t remember.

    Q. Of the 8 cases that you were investigating, how many are being prosecuted?

    A. I can’t be very sure about it.

    Q. But this is the only one you [know] at this time?

    A. For that matter, this is the only one I know.

    Q. Do you know whether DSO Akrasi gave a statement to the police?

    A. My Lord, he was invited to assist the new team which took over from us, so I won’t be surprised if he gave a statement.

    Q. If he did, in whose custody would it be?

    A. It would be in the custody of the police.

    Q. Would EOCO have a copy?

    A. I can’t tell my Lord.

    Q. Would Akrasi report to EOCO his involvement with the police team?

    A. Yes, my Lord, he has to report to EOCO

    Q. And would you, as the team leader, be briefed on it?

    A. My Lord through the briefing that is why I got to know that he was invited to assist the police

    Q. On February 8 2021, Chief Inspector Prempeh told the court that he had a petition to investigate this matter and that the petition was signed by the Senior Minister, Hon. Yaw Osofo Marfo. Did EOCO also receive a petition to deal with this matter

    A. No, my Lord.

    Q. After you gave your statement and handed over the docket, were you ever involved in the investigation on lithovit fertilizer?

    A. No, my Lord

    Q. Was EOCO, your institution, involved in any further investigation on this matter?

    A. No, my Lord, EOCO was not involved

    Q. Is there anything else you know about this investigation that I have not asked you about?

    A. No, my Lord

    Benson: My Lord, that would be all for the witness

  • Cocoa trial: EOCO document goes missing

    Cocoa trial: EOCO document goes missing

    Paul Agyei Gyang, a senior officer at the Operations Directorate of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), expressed shock over alleged claims by the police that they did not receive a Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) test report on lithovit.

    Mr. Gyang stated that the test report in question was part of the documents on cocoa investigations that EOCO handed over to the Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in 2018.

    This specific test report, which indicated that lithovit was a fertilizer with major active ingredients present, could not be found on the docket, according to Chief Inspector Thomas Mensah Mercer’s claims.

    Mr. Gyang is confident that the report was indeed on the docket.

    Testifying as a subpoenaed witness for businessman Seidu Agongo and Agricult Ghana Limited at the Lands Division of the Accra High Court, Mr. Gyang stated that EOCO had received the second test report from the GSA by July 4, 2017.

    When asked by Benson Nutsukpui, counsel for Seidu Agongo, if the new investigation team from the CID, led by C/Inp Mercer, had ever invited him, Mr. Gyang replied in the negative.

    He informed the court that once the report was received, the complainant, Dr. Yaw AduAmpomah, who was the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Agronomy and Quality Control (A&QC) at the time, was notified, as per EOCO’s standard practice.

    Mr. Gyang stated that he was unaware that a committee, headed by Dr. Adu Ampomah, was formed regarding the work he had done.

    Upon reviewing the committee’s report, Mr. Gyang noted that there was no reference to the second GSA report that certified lithovit as a fertilizer.

    Previously, Dr. Adu Ampomah’s claim was based on the first test result of the lithovit product from the GSA Drug Forensic and Cosmetic Unit, as well as the Chemistry Department of the University of Ghana, using samples supplied by Dr. Ampomah.

    The second report was a result of the first one being rejected by the second accused (A2), Seidu Agongo, on the grounds that an earlier sample was likely not one of the products he supplied to the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD).

    According to Mr. Gyang, farmers who were invited to give statements regarding the investigation into the case were also provided by Dr. Adu Ampomah, a prosecution witness.

    The witness’ evidence led by Counsel Benson

    Q. Who was the complainant of the matter that was brought before EOCO?
    A. If my memory serves me right the Deputy Chief Executive in charge of A&QC, in the person of Dr Adu Ampomah.

    Q. When you said your Executive Director had discussions with the Deputy Chief Executive A&QC, who is that person of the Deputy Chief Executive Agronomy and Qualify Control then?

    A. My lord it is Dr Adu Ampomah
    Q. Now you also told this court that after you received the second report the Directorate brought the scientists together, is that correct?
    A. That is correct.

    Q. Who else was involved in this discussion with the scientists?
    A. My lord, the head of Chemistry Department, University of Ghana.
    Q. Any other person?

    A. That is all I can remember for now.
    Q. Now sir did your directorate have the occasion to communicate this second test to the interested parties?

    A. My lord if anything of that happened it should be at the management level and of which I may not be privy to.
    Q. Please tell the court if you know. Was the complainant informed about the result of the second test?

    A. Yes my Lord, as I told the court about the people, he himself was equally informed.
    Q. Please was he invited to EOCO office for …
    A. As an interested party it was only reasonable that management invited him to let him know what the result was.

    Q. Now sir cast your mind back, this invitation to Dr AduAmpomah was it on or before your meeting with the scientists?
    A. I think initially, the scientists were first invited, for which reason they had two different results. Thereafter some few days or so he was also invited.
    Q. Now can you recall around what date the scientists were invited?

    A. It is unfortunate I can’t recall.
    Q. Please look at Exhibit H. Please look at page 3 of H just at the top, the Executive summary. It said that a committee was constituted in October that is correct?

    A. Yes it is there my lord
    Q. Please what date was that committee constituted?
    A. 4th October 2017.
    Q. As at 4th October 2017, this matter was under investigation by EOCO?

    A. That is correct.
    Q. Tell this court by that date 4th October 2017, did you receive the report of the second testing at EOCO.

    A. Yes my lord, 26th July 2017.
    Q. So as at the 4th of October 2017, EOCO has received this report and discussed it with the Scientists as at the 4th of October 2017?

    A. Yes my lord.
    [Q. From the nature of operations of EOCO, how long after the 26th of July, 2017 would have informed the interested parties about this other test result?

    A. By our operations as soon as a result is out we have to inform parties.
    Q. So tell this court by the 4th of October 2017, was Dr.AduAmpomah informed of the second result?

    A. I believe so.
    Q. Now you have Exhibit H. Look on the date on Exhibit 7th November, 2017.
    A. That is correct.

    Q. You see the two reports in Exhibit H from Standard Authority and University of Ghana which concluded that the lithovit they examined did not have the necessary ingredients are in the reports, is that true?
    A. Yea my lord, that is true.

    Q. Now take some few minutes of the court time if the report Exhibit 133/A2A3 is also captured in Exhibit H?
    A. After having a cursory look at it, it is not there. I only found the first report of Ghana Standard Authority, which was forwarded to EOCO on 4th July 2017, and another covering letter from the University of Ghana, Chemistry Department.

    Q. After your cursory look at that Exhibit you have found that Exhibit 133 is not included?
    A. Yes my lord exactly so.
    Q. And look page 3 of Exhibit H and tell this court who is the chairman who produced Exhibit H?

    A. My lord Dr AduAmpomah, Deputy Chief A&QC was the chairman.
    Q. Now at all times that EOCO was doing investigation into this matter, who were they reporting to at COCOBOD?

    A. My lord, Dr AduAmpomah
    Q. Now please tell this honourable court if back in 2017, you personally or the investigation team knew about the existence of this committee?
    A. My lord I’m for the first time hearing of the committee I cannot tell whether management was informed.

    Q. EOCO handed over the docket to the police in June 2018, is that correct?
    A. The docket was handed to police but I can’t be specific whether it was June or July.
    Q. Do you remember the year?
    A. Somewhere in 2018 and 2017 there about I cannot be very sure.

    Q. Yesterday we talked about the investigator’s statement you wrote, is that correct?
    A. Yes my lord.
    Q. Was handing over the docket earlier before the investigator’s statement?
    A. The statement was together with the docket

    Q. So if I told you your statement was written on the 15th of June 2018, when you would have handed over the docket?
    A. 2018 my lord.

    Q. Now by the time you were handing over the report to the Police, did EOCO receive Exhibit H on the file?
    A. My lord, the investigation team did not receive anything, but I can’t tell management had been given a copy.

    Q. By your mode of operations in EOCO if management received a copy would it be minuted down to the investigation team?
    A. Exactly so my lord.
    Q. What documents were handed over to the police from EOCO?

    A. We had directive to hand all dockets involving COCOBOD of which this case was part. Statements taken from complainants, witnesses and suspects and all relevant documents we gathered including the test reports ie the test reports we received from the scientists.

    Q. So EOCO will consider Exhibit 133 relevant and on the docket?
    A. Yes my lord you’re right

    Q. On the 15th of March 2021, under cross examination, Mr Thomas Mensah Mercer told the court that the docket that the police received had only two test reports, the ones that have only negative results. Would that be correct?

    A. My lord, I would be surprised.
    Q. I know you would be surprised if EOCO did not give Exhibit 133?
    A. The report was inclusive.

    Q. Now Mr Thomas Mensah Mercer indeed admitted reading your investigator’s statement. Tell this honourable court, did he or anybody on the police investigation team contact you to find out about the Exhibit 133, which you wrote about in your statement?
    A. No my lord nobody contacted me.

    Q. Now from June 2018 till today you have remained in the employment of EOCO is that correct?

    A. That is correct.
    Q. Has your office sent you any signal or request for explanationwhy Exhibit 133 is not on the police docket?

    A. Nobody has contacted me.
    Q. An investigator’s statement, which you wrote will be the beginning of the person taking over. That is true?

    A. Yes my lord you’re right
    Q. And in normal investigative work, if you wrote about another test result and if it cannot be found you will be contacted. That is also true?
    A. Yes my lord.

    Q. Now can you explain how come you were never contacted in respect of the investigation you did and Exhibit 133?
    A. My lord it will be very difficult for me to explain.

    Q. Now tell this court what is your impression of this development in relation to Exhibit 133 that I have taken you through this morning?
    A. As I have told this court I’m only surprised, but I can’t explain.
    Q. Now sir, EOCO took statements from a lot of people. That is correct?

    A. That is correct.
    Q. Sir, cast your mind back, you took statements from a lot of people including farmers?
    A. Yes my lord.

    Q. Will the name Obeng Emmanuel or Emmanuel Obeng of Tafo come to mind?
    A. The name I might have forgotten because we interacted with a lot of famers.
    Q. But you cannot remember the number of famers you took statements from?

    A. That’s correct. The farmers we took statements from, we had them through Dr AduAmpomah. So Dr AduAmpomah directed.
    Q. When you said say you had them through Dr AduAmpomah, what exactly do you mean?
    A. I mean, my lord, he mentioned the people we could contact.

    Q. Now did the investigation team make any request to A2 & A3 to bring you farmers who used the product?
    A. I did not.

    Q. Apart from Dr AduAmpomah’s farmers’ witnesses, did the investigation team find other farmers of your own to question them about the product?
    A. I think we did.

    Q. Can you remember how many you got?
    A. About two or three
    Q. Did you take statements from them?
    A. Some said they were scared to give statements and they did not give statements. About two of them gave statements.

    Q. Can you remember, which of the farmers you had the statements from, were they ones you got from Dr AduAmpomah?
    A. I can’t remember.

    Q. As an investigation team, try and see if you can remember how often your meetings with Dr AduAmpomah were?
    A. As Deputy Chief Executive in charge of A&QC, most of the time he was dealing directly with the Executive Director of EOCO. We will go there when there is a need.

    Q. Please try and see if you can remember how many times you have directives or you went there to meet Dr AduAmpomah during the course of this investigation
    A. I don’t want to guess…we were not dealing with this case only, we were dealing with about 8 different dockets involving COCOBOD. So when we have directives to meet him on any of those dockets we did. Not only on this docket.

    Q. I know investigators shy away from this. How often during the course of the investigation wereyou meeting Dr AduAmpomah?
    A. I can’t remember.
    Q. Of the 8 cases that you were investigating, how many are being prosecuted?

    A. I can’t be very sure.
    Q. But this is the only one you know being persecuted?
    A. This is the only one I know.
    Q. Now, so you know whether DSO Akresi gave a statement to the police?

    A. My lord, he was invited to assist the new team who took over from us, so I wouldn’t be surprised he gave a statement.
    Q. If he did whose custody will it be?
    A. It will be in the custody of the police.

    Q. Would EOCO have a copy?
    A. I can’t tell my lord.
    Q. Now you said Akresi was invited to assist the new team or the police. Would Akresi report back to EOCO his involvement with new team?

    A. Yes, he had to report back to EOCO.
    Q. And you as the team lead be brief on it?
    A. It is through the briefing I got to know he was invited to assist the police.

    Q. Now on the 8th of February 2021, C/Ins Prempeh told the court that they had a petition to investigate this matter and that the petition was signed by the Senior Minister, Hon. Yaw OsafoMaafo. Did EOCO also receive a petition to deal with this matter?
    A. No my lord.
    Q. Now after you gave a statement and handed over the docket, were you ever engaged in this matter the investigation of lithovit?

    A. No my lord.
    Q. Was EOCO, your institution, involved in the investigation of this matter?
    A. No my lord, EOCO was not involved in the matter.

    Q. Is there anything else you know about this investigation that I have not asked you about?

    A. No my lord.
    Counsel that will be all for this witness
    By Court: End of examination in chief of DW1. Cross examination by counsel for A1

  • OSP and Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition host media workshop on electoral corruption

    OSP and Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition host media workshop on electoral corruption

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), in collaboration with the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) and its partners, convened a media awareness workshop focused on “Electoral Corruption Offences and Sanctions” on February 7, 2024, at the Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra.

    The workshop drew the participation of 64 attendees, primarily media personnel, alongside representatives from key public institutions including the OSP and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    Led by Samuel Appiah Darko, Director for Strategy, Research, and Communication at the OSP, the presentation zeroed in on electoral corruption offenses falling within the OSP’s jurisdiction. Appiah Darko meticulously delineated the range of offenses that the OSP is mandated to investigate, emphasizing the distinction between these and other cases outside the OSP’s purview.

    Highlighting the four-fold mandate of the OSP, Appiah Darko underscored the office’s commitment to preventing and investigating corruption, conducting thorough prosecutions, and facilitating the recovery of ill-gotten gains from corrupt practices. He emphasized the importance of clarity in understanding the OSP’s scope of work, noting that while any wrongdoing by politicians may be perceived as corruption by the public, the OSP is specifically tasked with addressing defined instances of corruption.

    Furthermore, Appiah Darko stressed the role of the media in dispelling misconceptions about the OSP’s efficacy, urging journalists to play a proactive role in educating the public. He emphasized the need to prevent the perception that the OSP has failed or is not functioning effectively.

    The workshop served as a platform for robust discussions and knowledge-sharing among participants, fostering a deeper understanding of electoral corruption and the role of relevant institutions in combating it. As Ghana prepares for upcoming elections, such initiatives underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity in the electoral process.

  • EOCO is guided by law; no ‘powers from above’ can order me about – Tiwaa Addo-Danquah

    Executive Director of Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has reaffirmed her office’s independence from political pressure in carrying out investigations and prosecutions. Her statement comes amidst a suspected money laundering case involving former Water and Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah, which was referred to EOCO by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) after charges against Dapaah were dropped due to insufficient evidence.

    Addressing an anti-corruption forum, Ms Addo-Danquah emphasized her commitment to the rule of law, stating, “Fortunately for me, I have not had [directives from above], because you are guided by the law.” She stressed the importance of solid evidence in pursuing legal action and expressed dedication to fulfilling her mandate without interference.

    In the case involving Ms. Dapaah, who was arrested in 2023 on suspicion of corruption after reporting a theft from her home, the OSP’s decision to drop charges against her was followed by a dismissal of an application to confirm the seizure and freezing of her assets by the court. Sources suggest that the OSP was given a deadline to unfreeze Ms. Dapaah’s accounts and return seized funds.

    The ongoing trial involves Ms. Dapaah’s housemaids and other accomplices accused of stealing significant sums from her residence. The complexity of the case underscores the challenges of combating corruption in Ghana’s political landscape.

    Ms. Addo-Danquah’s remarks aim to reassure the public of her office’s commitment to impartial investigations and adherence to legal procedures, particularly in high-profile cases like the one involving Ms. Dapaah. As Ghana continues its efforts to combat corruption, the independence and integrity of institutions like EOCO remain crucial in upholding the rule of law and fostering accountability in governance.

  • EOCO Executive Director denies political pressure in handling of money laundering case

    EOCO Executive Director denies political pressure in handling of money laundering case

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has firmly stated that her office is not under political pressure when it comes to investigating and prosecuting cases. 

    This declaration comes in the wake of recent scrutiny following the referral of a suspected money laundering case involving former Water and Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah, to EOCO by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    Weeks ago, the OSP had forwarded the case to EOCO for further investigation and potential prosecution after announcing the dropping of all charges against Cecilia Dapaah due to a lack of credible evidence.

    Addressing an anti-corruption forum, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah emphasized that EOCO would only take action when solid evidence of wrongdoing is present. She stressed that her office operates independently, guided solely by the law and evidence at hand.

    “Nobody will direct you when you have evidence. It is when you don’t have evidence, when you haven’t been able to put evidence together then someone can tell you not to do this,” COP Addo-Danquah explained. “But if you have done your work in such a way that you have evidence, very solid evidence, you just have to explain to the person that these are my evidence, these are A, B, and C and they are solid and I am presenting it to the court.”

    The recent case involving Cecilia Dapaah saw the OSP initially filing charges against her for failing to declare her assets and seizing funds discovered in her possession. However, after a series of legal proceedings, including a repeat application for confirmation of seizure and freezing of bank accounts, the OSP decided to drop the charges against the former minister.

    While the reasons behind this decision remain unclear, sources suggest that the OSP may have faced pressure from the court to unfreeze the accounts and return the seized funds to Cecilia Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffuor, within a specified timeframe.

    COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah’s statements underscore the importance of upholding the rule of law and independence in the fight against corruption. As EOCO continues its investigations into the money laundering case, the public will be closely watching to ensure transparency and accountability in the pursuit of justice.

  • No external force can influence our judgement when dealing with cases – EOCO

    No external force can influence our judgement when dealing with cases – EOCO


    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has asserted that she faces no political pressure in conducting investigations and prosecutions.

    Her statement follows the referral of a suspected money laundering case involving former Water and Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah to EOCO by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

    Despite the OSP’s decision to drop charges against Dapaah due to a lack of credible evidence, COP Addo-Danquah emphasized that her office would only act when there is concrete evidence of wrongdoing.

    Speaking at an anti-corruption forum, she highlighted the importance of adhering to the law and explained that her actions are guided by evidence rather than external influences.

    “Sometimes when I hear people say I am handling a case and I have powers from above directing me, fortunately for me I have not had that because you are guided by the law.

    “Nobody will direct you when you have evidence. It is when you don’t have evidence, when you haven’t been able to put evidence together then someone can tell you not to do this.

    “But if you have done your work in such a way that you have evidence, very solid evidence, you just have to explain to the person that these are my evidence, these are A, B and C and they are solid and I am presenting it to the court.

    “Nobody can stop you but we hide behind powers from above and we are put back and we disappoint the citizens but they have given you the mandate to do the job,” she explained.

    The case involved the seizure of significant sums of money from Dapaah’s home, leading to charges related to failing to declare assets.

    The OSP dropped these charges after a meeting with the judge and defense lawyers, with sources indicating a court deadline for unfreezing accounts and returning seized funds to Dapaah.

    The background of the case involved Dapaah’s arrest in 2023 on suspicion of corruption and the subsequent resignation from her ministerial position amid public pressure.

  • EOCO director calls for active public participation in anti-corruption efforts

    EOCO director calls for active public participation in anti-corruption efforts

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah, has called on Ghanaians to actively engage in the fight against corruption. Stressing that the battle against corruption cannot be won solely by officeholders and politicians, she emphasizes the crucial role of citizens in combating this societal issue.

    Addressing Ghana’s recent ranking at the 43rd position in the Corruption Perception Index, Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah underscores the need for collective efforts to eliminate corruption. She encourages citizens to willingly provide information that can strengthen anti-corruption initiatives, urging them to speak up when they witness corrupt practices.

    “I keep saying that everybody must be part of the fight against corruption, not just those in authority; it must be everybody,” stated the EOCO Executive Director.

    Emphasizing the importance of public vigilance, she added, “When you see something, not only in the physical security but even in the area of corruption, you must say something because if you don’t say it, it will get bad, and that is what we should be worried about.”

  • “Everybody must be part of the fight against corruption” – EOCO boss

    “Everybody must be part of the fight against corruption” – EOCO boss

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah, has called on all Ghanaians to actively engage in the fight against corruption.

    Emphasizing that the battle against corruption cannot be won solely by politicians and public officeholders, she stressed the need for collective efforts.

    Her comments come in response to Ghana’s 43rd position in the latest corruption perception index.

    Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah urged people to volunteer information to strengthen the fight against corruption and emphasized the importance of citizen participation in addressing this societal challenge.

    “I keep saying that everybody must be part of the fight against corruption, not just those in authority, it must be everybody. Everyone must ensure that they are playing their role in the fight against corruption.

    “When you see something, not only in the physical security but even in the area of corruption, you must say something because if you don’t say it, it will get bad and that is what we should be worried about.”

  • Money laundering: We will speak about OSP’s docket on Cecilia Dapaah at the appropriate time – EOCO Boss

    Money laundering: We will speak about OSP’s docket on Cecilia Dapaah at the appropriate time – EOCO Boss

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has confirmed receiving the docket related to Cecilia Dapaah, the former Sanitation Minister, concerning an alleged money laundering case.

    However, she noted that although the Office of the Special Prosecutor has officially submitted the docket to her office, she has not yet had the opportunity to review its contents.

    She therefore hesitated from making any further comments on the matter when engaged by the media at a Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) event in Accra on January 29.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing, at the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over, I don’t have any more thing to add,” she explained.

    The Special Prosecutor (SP), Kissi Agyebeng, has officially referred the case involving the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for further investigations into suspected money laundering.

    This decision was prompted by revelations that a substantial amount of cash found at Dapaah’s residence, along with funds in her bank accounts, may have been repatriated from abroad.

    The investigation took a cross-border turn when individuals of interest claimed that part of the seized cash was transported to the United States. As a result, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) collaborated with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to delve into the matter.

  • Don’t just make wild allegations, provide evidence – EOCO on fight against corruption

    Don’t just make wild allegations, provide evidence – EOCO on fight against corruption

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has issued a challenge to individuals who allege corruption, urging them to provide evidence to support their claims.

    According to her, making unverified and baseless allegations of corruption is insufficient, and those making such accusations should be able to substantiate them with concrete evidence.

    Speaking to the media at a Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) event Accra on January 29, she said, “One thing that we should always remember is that when you are prosecuting corruption, it is not about what you think, it is about the evidence that you have. If you don’t have evidence, you don’t have a case. That is what the public must understand. People make wild allegations but when it comes to evidence, they chicken out.”

    Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah emphasizes that corruption permeates through the fabric of society, underscoring the need for a collective effort in the fight against it.

    “I am concerned, everybody should be concerned. What do we have to do? We must all put our hands together and we must fight whatever is fighting us. That is what I can say. The point is that, like the OSP said, if we really need to fight it, then everybody must fight. I have somebody who asked me for support to pay school fees or something.

    Then the moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine. And I did. So, these are small-small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah was responding to questions related to a money laundering case referred to her office by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Additionally, she addressed queries regarding an exposé by The Fourth Estate on the contract awarded to Strategic Mobilisation by the Ghana Revenue Authority for revenue assurances in the downstream petroleum sector.

    In a December 2023 investigative report, The Fourth Estate implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance in a contentious contract.

    The report alleged that GRA had granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities. SML refuted this claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead.

    The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed. On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance.

    President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct an immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.

  • EOCO boss recounts how somebody she knows tried to ‘rob’ MTN

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has disclosed a surprising incident involving someone she knows attempting to deceive MTN, a prominent telecom company in Ghana.

    During an interview with 3News on the prevalent issue of corruption in the country, Madam Tiwaa shared the story as an illustration of the need for collective efforts to combat corruption.

    Madam Tiwaa narrated that she once offered assistance to a person in need of money for school fees. After agreeing to help, the individual requested that the money not be transferred via mobile money (MoMo) because of an outstanding debt to MTN.

    “The moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine? And I did. So, these are small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    She emphasized the necessity for a change in attitude and mindset, urging everyone to play a role in the fight against corruption.

    “So, everybody must have a change of attitude, mindset, that this is where we are and this is where we want to go. And we must all play a role in the fight against corruption. One person cannot do it. And it’s not about leadership. It’s about everybody playing a role. Whatever is expected of you, you do it, whatever is expected of me, I do it. Whatever is expected of institutions, they do it,” she explained.

    Madam Tiwaa also revealed that EOCO has initiated investigations into the case of Cecilia Dapaah, a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, who is accused of corruption. The case was referred to EOCO by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), which indicated that it could involve money laundering, beyond the OSP’s investigative and prosecutorial mandate.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing it, at the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over, I don’t have any more thing to add,” she noted.

  • We all have a role to play in fighting corruption – EOCO

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), has emphasized the collective responsibility of individuals and institutions in the ongoing battle against corruption in Ghana.

    During an exclusive interview with 3News’ Beatrice Adu on Monday, January 29, 2024 she highlighted the prevalence of corruption in society, urging collective efforts in combating the issue.

    She also stressed the necessity of concrete evidence in prosecuting corruption, emphasizing that everyone, including individuals and institutions, has a role to play in the fight against corruption.

    Madam Addo-Danquah called for a collective change of attitude and mindset to effectively combat corruption.

    “One thing that we should always remember is that when you are prosecuting corruption, it is not about what you think, it is about the evidence that you have. If you don’t have evidence, you don’t have a case. That is what the public must understand. People make wild allegations but when it comes to evidence, they chicken out,“ she said in an exclusive interview with 3News’ Beatrice Adu on January 29 at a CDD event Accra.

    “I am concerned, everybody should be concerned. What do we have to do? We must all put our hands together and we must fight whatever is fighting us. That is what I can say. The point is that, like the OSP said, if we really need to fight it, then everybody must fight. I have somebody who asked me for support to pay school fees or something.

    Then the moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine. And I did. So, these are small-small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    “So, everybody must have a change of attitude, mindset, that this is where we are and this is where we want to go. And we must all play a role in the fight against corruption. One person cannot do it. And it’s not about leadership. It’s about everybody playing a role. Whatever is expected you, you do it, whatever is expected of me, I do it. Whatever is expected of institutions, they do it,” Madam Tiwaa stressed.

    She further acknowledged the receipt of the docket on the alleged money laundering case involving former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing, at the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over, I don’t have any more thing to add,” she explained.

  • We are yet to review Cecilia Dapaah’s docket – EOCO

    We are yet to review Cecilia Dapaah’s docket – EOCO

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has confirmed the receipt of the docket pertaining to the alleged money laundering case involving former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    During an interview with 3News, she conveyed that her office is presently reviewing the docket and emphasized that the matter will be fully addressed at the appropriate time.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing. At the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well-briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over; I don’t have anything more to add,” she added.

    Touching on the contract awarded by the Ghana Revenue Authority to Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), Madam Addo-Danquah emphasized that she refrains from discussing matters she is not well-briefed on.

    Recalling events from January 25, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) transferred the Cecilia Dapaah case to EOCO, with Special Prosecutor Mr. Kissi Agyebeng highlighting the focus on money laundering falling within EOCO’s mandate.

    Approximately 11 months ago, the OSP initiated an investigation into then Sanitation Minister Cecilia Abena Dapaah after reports of substantial sums being stolen from her residence by domestic staff.

    Cash sums ranging from $590,000 to 2.7 million cedis were discovered at various residences linked to Dapaah, leading to the freezing of her bank accounts.

    Despite an unsuccessful attempt to secure court approval, the OSP retained control of the funds and sought court confirmation. However, on January 25, the OSP announced the discontinuation of the case, citing extensive collaborative investigations within and outside Ghana.

    “The Office has determined that the crime borders largely on money laundering, which falls within the mandate of EOCO,” he said.

  • OSP has handed Cecilia Dapaah’s docket to us – EOCO Boss

    OSP has handed Cecilia Dapaah’s docket to us – EOCO Boss

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has confirmed the receipt of the docket pertaining to the alleged money laundering case involving former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah.

    While acknowledging that the Office of the Special Prosecutor(OSP) has officially submitted the docket,Madam Addo-Danquah stated that she is currently in the process of reviewing it.

    In an interview with 3News she stated that “I have that, and we are now reviewing. At the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well-briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over; I don’t have anything more to add”.

    When questioned about the contract awarded by the Ghana Revenue Authority to Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), Addo-Danquah emphasized that she refrains from discussing matters she is not well-briefed on.

    Recalling events from January 25, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) transferred the Cecilia Dapaah case to EOCO, with Special Prosecutor Mr. Kissi Agyebeng highlighting the focus on money laundering falling within EOCO’s mandate.

    Approximately 11 months ago, the OSP initiated an investigation into then Sanitation Minister Cecilia Abena Dapaah after reports of substantial sums being stolen from her residence by domestic staff. Cash sums ranging from $590,000 to 2.7 million cedis were discovered at various residences linked to Dapaah, leading to the freezing of her bank accounts.

    Despite an unsuccessful attempt to secure court approval, the OSP retained control of the funds and sought court confirmation. However, on January 25, the OSP announced the discontinuation of the case, citing extensive collaborative investigations within and outside Ghana.

    “The Office has determined that the crime borders largely on money laundering, which falls within the mandate of EOCO,” he said.

  • Know that Cecilia Dapaah will go free once her case is in EOCO’s hands – Clement Apaak

    Know that Cecilia Dapaah will go free once her case is in EOCO’s hands – Clement Apaak

    Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak, has cautioned Ghanaians disappointed by the Special Prosecutor’s decision to drop the case against Cecilia Dapaah to brace themselves for further letdowns.

    He suggested that the recent development is just the beginning, and more disappointments may follow.

    Dr. Apaak responded to the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) decision to abandon the application confirming the freezing of Cecilia Dapaah’s money and bank accounts, as well as dropping a criminal trial for failure to declare assets.

    The OSP stated that after seven months of investigation, the matter involves money laundering, and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is tasked with handling it.

    Despite public disappointment in the OSP’s handling of the case, Dr. Apaak hinted that Cecilia Dapaah could be cleared and exonerated now that EOCO has taken over.

    He referred to President Akufo-Addo’s earlier expression of confidence in her exoneration following her resignation amid allegations of stolen cash from her residence.

    Dr. Apaak argued that the president’s statement was part of an orchestrated attempt to clear her name.

    “Those disappointed with the way the OSP has handled the Cecilia Dapaah matter should get ready for further disappointment now that the matter has been transferred to EOCO.

    “She will be cleared and exonerated, as was hinted in Akufo-Addo’s letter accepting her resignation.”

  • EOCO recovers GHS232m for Ghana in 2023

    EOCO recovers GHS232m for Ghana in 2023

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) led by COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah successfully recovered over GHS232 million for the state in 2023. 

    This remarkable feat includes both direct and indirect recoveries from the proceeds of crime falling under EOCO’s jurisdiction.

    COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah expressed her appreciation to the entire management team and officers of EOCO who contributed to this substantial recovery. 

    Looking ahead to 2024, she outlined EOCO’s commitment to enhancing recovery efforts and implementing awareness programs covering various aspects such as prohibited cyber activities, gaming, the use of social media, and cyberbullying.

    The Public Affairs Unit of EOCO played a pivotal role in educating the public, conducting sensitization programs that reached a total of 130,294 students across different schools in the country. This inclusive effort targeted both female and male students, with 68,878 females and 61,416 males benefiting from these educational initiatives. These programs extended beyond schools, reaching regional levels, national television, markets, religious institutions, and selected communities.

    EOCO’s dedication to recovering illicit funds and educating the public on emerging issues reflects its ongoing commitment to combating economic and organized crime in Ghana. The substantial recovery in 2023 underscores the agency’s effectiveness in safeguarding state resources and fostering public awareness on crucial matters related to cyber activities and financial crimes.

  • Court issues 72 hour ultimatum to OSP to return Cecilia Dapaah’s seized funds

    Court issues 72 hour ultimatum to OSP to return Cecilia Dapaah’s seized funds

    An Accra High Court has mandated the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to return seized funds to former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, within 72 hours. 

    This directive comes as a result of an application by the OSP to confirm freezing and seizure orders related to bank accounts and assets at Dapaah’s residence.

    During a press conference on Thursday, January 25, 2024, the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, revealed that the OSP has discontinued its application for the confirmation of seizure and freezing orders. 

    Instead, the case will be handed over to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for further investigation. Mr Agyebeng emphasized that his probe has uncovered evidence pointing towards a suspected case of money laundering, a matter more appropriately handled by EOCO.

    “A little over an hour ago, the Office discontinued its application that was pending before the High Court for confirmation of the seizure and freezing orders in pursuance of the referral of the case to EOCO. The court ordered that the office should return the cash sums and defreeze the accounts of an investment of Mrs. Dapaah within 72 hours,” Agyebeng stated.

    The SP highlighted the cross-border nature of the investigation, which led to the involvement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) from the United States back in October 2023. The collaborative efforts sought to unravel the legality surrounding the wealth amassed by Cecilia Dapaah and her associates, spanning both Ghana and the United States.

    Speaking on the matter, Agyebeng expressed the intent to maintain close collaboration with EOCO and continue working with the FBI as the case progresses.

    Background:

    The saga surrounding Cecilia Dapaah initially surfaced during the trial of two house helps, Patience Botwe and Sarah Agyei, accused of stealing significant sums and items from the minister’s residence. The alleged thefts, which occurred between July and October 2022, involved personal effects valued at GH¢95,000 and US$95,000, among other items.

    Following the arrest of the house helps, the case took a complex turn, implicating additional individuals, including one of the accused’s current and former boyfriends and her father, on charges of dishonestly receiving stolen money. The accused individuals were arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court in July 2023, and the case garnered public attention with calls for thorough investigations into the source of the funds.

    As the legal landscape surrounding Cecilia Dapaah’s case continues to evolve, Ghanaians await further developments from EOCO and the potential reexamination of the source of the funds that sparked this high-profile investigation.

  • Suspected money laundering: OSP refers Cecilia Dapaah’s case to EOCO for further investigations

    Suspected money laundering: OSP refers Cecilia Dapaah’s case to EOCO for further investigations

    Special Prosecutor (SP), Kissi Agyebeng, has officially referred the case involving former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Dapaah, to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for further investigations into suspected money laundering. 

    This decision comes in the wake of revelations that a significant portion of the substantial amounts of cash found at Dapaah’s residence, along with funds in her bank accounts, may have been repatriated from abroad.

    Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, disclosed at a press conference held on Thursday, January 25, 2024, that the investigation took a cross-border turn when individuals of interest claimed that part of the seized cash was transported to the United States. 

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) subsequently joined forces with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to delve into the matter.

    More soon…

  • ICAG to partner with EOCO in clamping down on corruption in Ghana

    ICAG to partner with EOCO in clamping down on corruption in Ghana

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has called upon the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG) to join forces with EOCO and other regulatory bodies to intensify the fight against corruption in the country.

    During a sensitisation event in Tamale, focused on public sector fraud and corruption investigation, the director emphasised the critical role that ICAG members, noted for their professional integrity, could play in reporting corruption and fraud-related cases.

    Such collaborative efforts are essential for the effective investigation and prosecution of those involved in corrupt practices.

    Addressing the members of the Tamale District Society of ICAG last Saturday, COP Addo-Danquah urged the accountants to remain alert and proactive.

    She highlighted the need for diligent detection and investigation of individuals masquerading as fraudsters.

    The gathering aimed at enhancing the ICAG members’ understanding of evolving fraud and corruption trends and the sophisticated tactics adopted by offenders.

    COP Addo-Danquah pinpointed bureaucracy, greed, and a lack of commitment as primary corruption drivers within the public sector, with some employees being complicit.

    Nonetheless, she expressed optimism that ICAG’s involvement in reporting suspected cases would significantly contribute to confronting the challenge.

    Reaffirming this sentiment, the Chairman of the Tamale District Society of ICAG, Abdul Rahman Osman, pledged his organisation’s dedication to working in tandem with EOCO and other pertinent authorities to root out corruption.

    He recognised the importance of the knowledge shared by EOCO, believing it would greatly benefit the ICAG members, the accounting profession, and the nation.

    He stated, “Now that we are aware of the mandate of EOCO, what they do, and with this clarification on some of the pertinent issue regarding their work, it is my firm belief that what we have learnt will be very beneficial to us as members and to the accounting professions and to the nation at large that will be put to practice in our various workplaces.”

    The partnership between ICAG and EOCO marks a significant step towards fostering a culture of integrity and accountability in Ghana’s financial and public sectors.

  • We will work with EOCO to uncover ‘surprising’ bribery allegation by Prof Adei over road contracts – Roads Ministry

    We will work with EOCO to uncover ‘surprising’ bribery allegation by Prof Adei over road contracts – Roads Ministry

    The Ministry of Roads and Highways has responded to allegations made by former GIMPA Rector, Prof. Stephen Adei, stating that claims of bribery influencing road contract awards are unfounded.

    Prof Adei in an interview bemoaned the issue of corruption in the award of road contracts, and according to him, he has information to the effect that persons seeking road contracts are told, “Road contracts will be given to you, provided you pay 1 million upfront….”

    In a statement released on October 23, the Ministry emphasized that the processes leading to the award of road contracts are conducted openly, transparently, and in accordance with legal standards.

    Given the gravity of these accusations, the Ministry has called for an investigation by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    “Given that the alleged conduct borders on the commission of crime against the Republic, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwasi Amoako-Attah, has today, 23rd October 2023, requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to fully investigate the allegations.,” portions of the statement said.

    The Roads Ministry assured that “it shall cooperate fully and support EOCO in the conduct of its investigation.”

  • EOCO and WHO look at strategies to combat illicit tobacco trade

    EOCO and WHO look at strategies to combat illicit tobacco trade

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has reaffirmed her agency’s commitment to collaborating with other organizations to ensure strict compliance with tobacco trade laws.

    She emphasized that the illicit tobacco trade presents a significant challenge, as it can facilitate various criminal economic activities.

    COP Addo-Danquah made these remarks during a meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023, when a delegation comprising officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat (FCTC) in Geneva, Switzerland, and representatives from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) engaged with EOCO officials.

    The discussions revolved around adopting law enforcement strategies in Ghana’s efforts to combat illicit tobacco trade and address the associated challenges.

    Olivia Agyekumwaa Boateng, the Head of the Tobacco and Substance Abuse Department at the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and a member of the delegation, revealed that the FDA is conducting a needs assessment to gauge the extent of illicit trade and develop regulatory measures to address it effectively.

    Various speakers at the meeting emphasized the dangers posed by illicit tobacco trade and underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders in combating this menace.

    Andrew Black, the Coordinator and Development Assistant of FCTC, emphasized that despite the lucrative nature of illicit tobacco trade, it poses a significant global problem with substantial risks involved.

    Dr. William Maina, the Technical Coordinator for Tobacco Control at WHO, reiterated the hazards associated with tobacco use, underscoring its highly addictive nature and its role in causing numerous non-communicable diseases, including cancer.

    Dr. Maina expressed concern that while considerable efforts have been dedicated to reducing demand, purchase, and distribution of tobacco, there has been relatively limited focus on decreasing the supply. He also stressed that uncertified tobacco is detrimental to one’s health.

    The meeting was attended by Dr. Joana Ansong, the WHO country representative for Non-Communicable Diseases, along with other officials from the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Secretariat, the UNDP, and several Unit Heads from EOCO.

  • EOCO retrieves GHC79m from illicit proceeds

    EOCO retrieves GHC79m from illicit proceeds

    Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has exceeded its annual target by retrieving GHC79 million in illicit proceeds as of June 2023.

    As reported by graphic.com.gh, EOCO surpassed its goal by recovering GHC50 million in crime proceeds in 2022, surpassing the targeted amount of GHC30 million.

    These funds were sourced from both enterprises and individuals who had intentionally misrepresented their tax obligations to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), as well as from those who had illicitly amassed wealth, often by detrimentally impacting state entities like the Gaming Commission and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA).

    Proceeds of crime refer to funds or assets acquired by criminals through illegal activities or illicit wealth accumulation, often at the detriment of the state.

    During an interaction with the media on August 23, 2023, the Executive Director of EOCO, Commissioner of Police (COP), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, noted that several gains by the office extended beyond financial gains.

    Among these achievements were rescuing and reuniting human trafficking victims with their families, raising awareness about activities that could make individuals vulnerable to economic and organized crime perpetrators, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat and prevent criminal activities.

    COP Maame Tiwa also shed light on EOCO’s crucial role in the country’s fight against economic and organised crimes.

    She noted that one of the primary pillars of EOCO’s five-year strategic plan (2023-2028) involves collaborating with the media to educate the public about the office’s operations and also sensitise citizens about preventable crimes.

    She said EOCO operated an open-door policy and was ready to partner the media to fight crime in Ghana.

    Also, she highlighted EOCO’s commitment to working alongside international partners to clamp down on criminals who committed offenses abroad but can be traced back to Ghana, ensuring their prosecution and accountability.

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) devised a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, aiming to recover and manage GH¢350 million in proceeds of crime by June 2028.

    The office’s mandate includes investigations into various offenses, including financial loss to the state, money laundering, human trafficking, cybercrimes, tax fraud, and other serious transgressions.

    As per Section three of the EOCO Act, 2010 (Act 804), the office is vested with the authority to take actions towards recuperating proceeds from such criminal activities.

  • GHS79M from crime proceeds – EOCO

    GHS79M from crime proceeds – EOCO

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has successfully retrieved GH¢79 million in proceeds of crime by the end of June 2023.

    In the previous year, EOCO had surpassed its target by recovering GH¢50 million compared to the intended GH¢30 million.

    These illicit gains encompass funds acquired through tax evasion cases reported to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and wealth obtained unlawfully, detrimental to state institutions like the Gaming Commission and the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA).

    EOCO operates under a five-year strategic plan to manage and recover proceeds of crime amounting to GH¢350 million by June 2028.

    Its jurisdiction includes investigating financial losses, money laundering, human trafficking, cybercrime, tax fraud, and other serious offenses. Empowered by Section three of the EOCO Act, 2010 (Act 804), the office is authorized to take action to recover such ill-gotten gains.

    Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, the Executive Director of EOCO, highlighted that the office’s achievements extended beyond mere financial recovery.

    These accomplishments include rescuing human trafficking victims, raising awareness about activities that make individuals susceptible to economic crimes, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat and prevent criminal activities.

    Emphasizing EOCO’s pivotal role in tackling economic and organized crimes, COP Addo-Danquah stated that a cornerstone of their five-year strategic plan was partnering with the media to educate the public about the office’s operations and sensitizing them to avoid criminal activities.

    She expressed EOCO’s readiness to collaborate with the media in Ghana’s crime-fighting efforts, and also highlighted international partnerships to bring criminals who committed offenses abroad but could be traced to Ghana to face justice.

    The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, lauded EOCO‘s decision to collaborate with the media to achieve its five-year strategic objectives.

    Dwumfour recognized the role of media as a development partner and welcomed the partnership to contribute to EOCO’s transformation agenda.

    Highlighting the complex and dynamic nature of economic and organized crimes, Dwumfour stressed the importance of collaboration, particularly with the media, in contemporary crime fighting.

    He urged EOCO to enhance the skills and knowledge of investigative journalists within the GJA to strengthen the country’s efforts against crime. Dwumfour assured support for EOCO’s mandate while maintaining the media’s accountability role.

    Additionally, Stephen Raymond Dapaa-Addo, the Board Chairman of EOCO, announced EOCO’s intention to establish an award for the best crime story published in the media, which aligns with the office’s mission.

  • EOCO Director sworn in as ‘Ekuo Na’

    EOCO Director sworn in as ‘Ekuo Na’

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has been as been sworn in as the ‘Ekuo Na’ of Holy Family Akan Society for the Accra Catholic Archdiocese.

    The ceremony, held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Osu, coincided with her 54th birthday and recognized her contributions to the church and its societies.

    The National President of the Holy Family Akan Society, Mr Albert Joseph Kodua, provided historical context for the association, formed in 1978 to address language barriers faced by the Akan community in understanding sermons.

    COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah replaces the late Mrs. Esther Hamilton of St. Anthony Catholic Church at Taifa.

    In her acceptance speech, she thanked the National Executives of the Holy Family Akan Society for her nomination and urged the Akan community to support one another and contribute to the church’s growth.

    COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah was born on August 19, 1969, in Konongo, Ashanti Region.

    She is the first female Commandant of the Ghana Police Command and Staff College and has achieved remarkable success in her career, rising through the ranks due to her dedication and academic achievements.

    During her time in the police service, she participated in peacekeeping missions and gained international experience. She is a chartered accountant and has held significant positions within the police force, contributing to its development and progress.

  • 7 anti-corruption institutions in Ghana

    7 anti-corruption institutions in Ghana

    A survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in partnership with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has revealed a number of corrupt institutions in the country.

    Ghana Police Service came out on top as the most corrupt institution.

    Among all public officials, police officers have emerged as the most vulnerable to bribery, exhibiting a concerning prevalence rate of 53.2 percent.

    Following closely, officers from the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and customs officers from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) also registered significant positions on the list, with bribery rates of 37.4 percent and 33.6 percent, respectively.

    Taking the second position on this list are the members of the judicial system, including prosecutors, judges, and magistrates.

    It is, however, important to note that Ghana has set up some institutions to combat corruption in the country.

    CHRAJ

    Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) is backed by the 1992 Constitution of Ghana and by its enabling Act, Act 456, in 1993 to investigate all instances of alleged or suspected corruption and the misappropriation of public monies by officials and to take appropriate steps, including reports to the Attorney-General and the Auditor-General, resulting from such investigations.

    EOCO

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is mandated to detect, investigate, prevent, and prosecute all serious economic and organised crimes in Ghana.

    OSP

    The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is an independent specialised agency responsible for performing four (4) main functions. 

    • The OSP is tasked with investigating specific cases of alleged or suspected corruption or corruption-related offences involving public officers and persons who have been entrusted with prominent public functions in Ghana or a foreign country or an international organisation such as senior political party officials, government officials, judicial officials, military officials, a person who is or has been an executive in a foreign country of a state-owned company, a senior political party official in a foreign country, and an immediate family member or close associate of such a person, as well as persons in the private sector involved in the commission of such offences.
    • The OSP is mandated to prosecute offenders involved in the commission of corruption and corruption-related offences on the authority of the Attorney-General. 
    • The OSP is empowered to recover the proceeds of corruption and corruption-related offences. 
    • The OSP is required to stake steps to prevent corruption. 

    Financial Intelligence Centre

    The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) is the national centre for the receipt and analysis of suspicious transaction reports and other information relevant to predicate offences of Money Laundering/ Terrorist Financing and Proliferation Financing (ML/TF&P) and to disseminate actionable intelligence to competent authorities.

    The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) was established by section 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2008 (Act 749) as amended.

    Public Procurement Authority

    Public Procurement Authority (PPA) is established by the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663) as a regulatory body responsible for the effective implementation of the Public Procurement Law in Ghana.

    The Authority seeks to ensure fairness, transparency and non-discrimination in public procurement in order to promote a competitive local industry and increase the confidence of our varied stakeholders in public procurement processes in the country and beyond.

    NCCE

    The National Commission for Civic Education is an independent, non-partisan governance institution set up under Article 231 of the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana and the National Commission for Civic Education Act, 1993, Act 452 of the Parliament of Ghana.

    The Commission works to promote and sustain democracy and inculcate in the Ghanaian citizenry, the awareness of their rights and obligations, through civic education.

    One function of the NCCE is to formulate, implement and oversee programmes intended to inculcate in the citizens of Ghana awareness of their civic responsibilities and an appreciation of their rights and obligations as free people

    Police CID Anti-corruption unit

    The Police Criminal Investigation Department’s anti-corruption unit probes criminal matters.

  • You have no evidence Cecilia Dapaah stole the money – Prof Agyeman-Duah cautions public

    You have no evidence Cecilia Dapaah stole the money – Prof Agyeman-Duah cautions public

    Governance Expert Professor Baffuor Agyaman-Duah has advised all commentators to be prudent and measured in their statements concerning the matters involving former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

    Prof Agyeman-Dua emphasised that there is no evidence indicating that the money in question, which has sparked controversy, was acquired through theft or money laundering.

    Madam Abena Dapaah submitted her resignation on Saturday, July 22, just one day after the public discussion regarding her allegedly stolen cash.

    Accepting her resignation, President Akufo-Addo described the work done by the former Bantama Member of Parliament as “excellent and productive”.

    “It is with considerable regret that I accept your resignation, and I applaud your loyalty to the image and standing of the government,” he wrote on Saturday.

    “The work you undertook during your period in Government was excellent and productive, and I thank you for your wholehearted contribution and devotion to the progress of the Government and the nation.”

    In her resignation, Madam Abena Dapaah assured of her availability and cooperation with all state agencies to look into her matter, which she concedes has become a “hindrance” to the government at this “crucial” time.

    “I have no doubt that at the end of the processes it will be established that I have conducted myself with integrity during my period in public service and I will be fully exonerated from all the allegations,” she further stated in her resignation letter.

    President Akufo-Addo also expressed confidence that “at the end of the day, your integrity, whilst in office, will be fully established”.

    The matter of the stolen monies – $1 million, €300,000 and millions of undisclosed Ghana Cedis – is in court. It is scheduled to be recalled on Wednesday, August 2.

    Commenting on this while speaking to the press on Monday, July 24, Prof Aheymang Duah said “If I were to be the president I would be a little more careful, the president rushed in commending her for the job she does for the government and the nation as a whole because truly, Madam Cecilia Dapaah has been working public service, there is no doubt at all but when the case of this nature emerges it is important for the processes to take place before we draw conclusions.

    “That is why I will even caution all the public commentators to be a little bit circumspect because there is no evidence so far that it is stolen money,  there is no evidence so far it is laundering money, we don’t have any evidence. All we know is that she sent some people to the Police for stealing her money. Of course, it is the amount of money that is causing this kind of public uproar.

    “I think what we need to do is to ensure that the proper investigation processes take place. I think EOCO should be interested because there could be an angel of money laundering, I am not saying it is but it raises that question.”

    He added, “for me, this would have been a wonderful opportunity to stand tall by taking a certain stand.”

    Meanwhile, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has placed Cecilia Abena Dapaah under arrest on Monday, July 24.

    She is being interrogated by officers of the OSP, a statement said.

    “At 11:55 GMT on 24th July 2023, Cecilia Abena Dapaah who resigned from the position of Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources on 22nd July 2023 was placed under arrest by the Office of the Special Prosecutor in respect of suspected corruption and corruption-related offenses regarding large amounts of money and valuable items reportedly stolen from her residence. Ms Dapaah is being questioned by authorized officers of the OSP,” the OSP said in the statement.

  • EOCO unveils 5-year strategic plan

    EOCO unveils 5-year strategic plan

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has introduced its new five-year strategic plan, aiming to redefine its mission and vision statements and provide a clear direction for the Office.

    During the launch on July 14, 2023, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, the Executive Director of EOCO, emphasized the significant shift represented by the strategic plan.

    She highlighted that the comprehensive document would guide the Office in achieving consistent and sustainable outcomes.

    COP MYT Addo-Danquah explained that “overall, the strategic plan, is expected to bring some significant improvements to the internal processes of EOCO”. She added that it would succinctly help the communication of a clear direction for the Office, over the course of the next five years”

    EOCO’s Strategic Plan prioritizes actionable measures to enhance responsiveness by establishing a robust asset recovery and management system, adopting modern technology, strengthening human resources, and fostering relevant partnerships, as stated by the Executive Director.

    The Executive Director expressed gratitude to the GIZ Governance for Inclusive Programme, co-funded by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO), for their financial support and technical guidance in developing the five-year strategic plan. Special appreciation was extended to Mr. Sampson Kwakwa, the GIZ Technical Advisor, for his valuable input, and Mr. Michael Ohene-Effah, the Lead Consultant, for bringing the plan to fruition.

    The Deputy Attorney-General and Justice Minister, Hon. Madam Diana Asonaba Dapaah, emphasized in her keynote address that the newly launched EOCO five-year strategic plan will serve as a blueprint and performance assessment tool for the agency. She commended the Governing Board and Management of EOCO for their effective leadership, which has steered the Office in the right direction.

    Distinguished guests, including representatives from the Ghana Police Service, Narcotics Control Commission, Office of the Special Prosecutor, Financial Intelligence Centre, Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice, Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, and Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, graced the occasion and shared solidarity messages with EOCO.

    The launch event also saw the presence of members from the Governing Board, Management, Regional Directors, Heads of Units of EOCO, and the Strategic Plan Working Group.

  • Whether NPP or NDC, a crime is a crime – EOCO tells public

    Whether NPP or NDC, a crime is a crime – EOCO tells public

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has appealed to Ghanaians to avoid politicising its operations, highlighting its impact on fighting crime.

    At the launch of EOCO’s strategic plan for the next five years in Accra, Raymond Daapah Addo, the Board Chair of EOCO, emphasized the need to discourage the demonization of the office during political transitions.

    He made it clear that EOCO maintains no political affiliation and encouraged the public to refrain from politicizing every matter.

    “We should stop politicizing every issue. Crime is a crime whether committed by NPP or NDC; it is a crime, and EOCO will go after whoever is involved without fear or favor,” citinewsroom.com quoted Raymond Daapah Addo.

    Reaffirming their commitment to pursuing criminal activities without bias, he emphasized that EOCO remains resolute in carrying out its mandate effectively and impartially.

  • Crime is a crime whether committed by NPP or NDC – Daapah Addo

    Crime is a crime whether committed by NPP or NDC – Daapah Addo

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has urged the public to avoid politicizing its operations.

    The Board Chair of EOCO, Raymond Daapah Addo, emphasized that demonizing the office during government transitions should not be encouraged.

    Speaking at the launch of EOCO’s five-year strategic plan in Accra, Raymond Daapah Addo reiterated that EOCO is not politically affiliated. He emphasized the importance of recognizing that crime is crime, regardless of the political party involved, whether it is the NPP or NDC.

    The call to refrain from politicizing EOCO’s operations highlights the need for a non-partisan approach to tackling crime and ensuring effective law enforcement in Ghana.

    “We should stop politicising every issue. Crime is a crime whether committed by NPP or NDC it is a crime and EOCO will go after whoever is involved without fear or favour,” he added.

    In addition, Raymond Daapah Addo stated that EOCO is fully dedicated to pursuing individuals involved in criminal activities without any bias or favoritism.

    By refraining from politicizing the operations of EOCO, the Office asserts that it can concentrate on fulfilling its mandate effectively and impartially.

    This approach ensures that justice is served and that the fight against crime is carried out without any undue influences.

  • EOCO gets new Deputy Executive Director

    EOCO gets new Deputy Executive Director

    President Akufo-Addo has appointed Lawyer Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah has as the Deputy Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

    His appointment, which, takes effect from July 20, 2023, in a letter signed by Nana Bediatuo Asante, Secretary to the President, revealed that it is pursuant to Section 13(1) and (2) of the Economic and Organised Crime Office Act 2010(act 804).

    Lawyer Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah succeeds Charles Nana Antwi who attained the mandatory retirement age earlier this month after working with EOCO since 2017.

    The new appointee until his elevation was the head of the Organised Crime Unit of EOCO since 2018.

    Profile

    Lawyer Abdulai Bashiru Dapilah joined EOCO in August 1998 as Assistant Controller/Assistant Staff Officer and rose through the ranks until his current position.

    He is a product of the Ghana Law School, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Ghana, Legon, T.I. Ahmaddiyya Secondary School in Kumasi and the Wa Secondary School.

    Research experience

    Presentation on Setting up an Intelligence Unit for a Small/Medium Size Organisation, FBI National Academy, June 2018.

    Presentation on Prevention and Control of Economic Crime in Ghana, FBI Re-trainer Program, Zambia, September 2019

    Presentation on Response of the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) to the government’s Anti-Corruption Policies under the Fourth Republic of Ghana. Institute of Distance Learning (IDL), KNUST, August 2011.

    Presentation on Purview of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) Act 2010, Act 804, KNUST, 2012.

    Career development

    Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Nigeria in the Fight Against Cyber Crime and Serious Crimes – Abuja, Nigeria, June 2023.

    4th Global Conference on Transnational Vehicle Organised Crime, Lyon, France, May – June, 2023

    The 13th Regional Conference and AGM of Heads of Anti- Corruption Agencies in Commonwealth Africa, Seychelles, May 2023

    FBI National Academy Re-trainer Program, Zambia, September 2019

    FBI National Academy March to June 2018, United States of America.

    International Law Enforcement Academy, April 2017, Botswana.

    Financial Crime Scenes and Electronic Evidence, U.S. Embassy, Accra, December 2011, Accra.

    Course on Banking and Finance for Financial Crime Investigation, Accra, 2010

    Accounting and Finance for Non-Finance Managers, Accra, November, 2007

    Training in Assets Recovery, Serious Fraud Investigation and Prosecution, (SFO, UK) London, December, 2006

    Advanced Course in Financial Crime Investigation, by CID, Ghana Police Service Training School, July 2006, Accra.

    Investigative Interviewing and Investigation Management by Crown Agents – GIMPA / Accra, March 2001 etc.

    Committees served on

    Committee on Law Enforcement Agencies and Banking Communities (COCLAP), Bank of Ghana.

    Revenue Assurance Compliance Enforcement (RACE), Ministry of Finance.

    Import Declaration Forms Audit Committee (IDF), Ghana Revenue Authority.

    Inter-Agency Committee on Illicit Financial Flows Committee, Ministry of Finance.

    Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa, GIABA.

    United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC).

    Scheme of Service Committee, EOCO.

    Condition of Service, EOCO.

  • Cybersecurity operation by BoG, EOCO, leads to arrest of 420 suspected loan app operators

    Cybersecurity operation by BoG, EOCO, leads to arrest of 420 suspected loan app operators

    Over 420 alleged loan app operators have been detained as a result of a joint operation by the Cyber Security Authority, the Bank of Ghana, and the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO).

    Authorities in Accra conducted a raid at some of the suspected locations of online lending app operators.

    “The three collaborating institutions launched a swoop in the early hours of Monday, July 10, 2023, as part of a Joint Cybersecurity Committee operation which resulted in the arrest of over 420 suspects”, a statement from the authority mentioned.

    From the place of Central Bank, the surge in loan applications is in violation of Act 930 of 2016, which is the law governing banks and specialized deposit-taking institutions.

    The bank claimed that it has noticed the continued functioning of unlicensed organizations that are involved in offering loans to the people of Ghana via mobile applications.

    The Bank emphasized that these organizations’ actions gravely violate laws governing customer data and privacy as well as standards and regulations for consumer protection, with negative repercussions for the honesty and welfare of their clients.

    In order to promote the integrity of financial service delivery, the Bank of Ghana will continue to take action against these organizations in coordination with pertinent governmental agencies.

  • BOG, EOCO apprehend loan app operators

    BOG, EOCO apprehend loan app operators

    More than 420 individuals working for loan apps have been taken into police custody.

    The Bank of Ghana (BOG), the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), and the Cyber Security Authority coordinated their efforts to carry out a well-planned operation that resulted in the capture of the suspects.

    Authorities launched raids on numerous alleged owners of digital lending applications, often known as loan apps, in the Greater Accra Region as part of this coordinated operation.

    The people behind these apps engage in a variety of illegal acts, including cyberbullying, extortion, the unauthorized use of data and privacy, and, in the most extreme situations, issuing death threats.

    In a statement issued by the authority, it was stated, “The three collaborating institutions carried out a targeted operation in the early hours of Monday, July 10, 2023, as part of a joint effort by the Cybersecurity Committee, resulting in the arrest of more than 420 suspects.

  • Customers of Gold Coast Fund demand investigation into EOCO over “missing” server

    Gold Coast Fund Management customers have demanded an explanation from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) regarding their inability to present a server crucial to an ongoing court case.

    In a statement released by convener Charles Nyame, the disgruntled customers highlighted that the server, which holds backup data of the company’s investors, was confiscated by EOCO after the revocation of Gold Coast Fund Management’s operational license in November 2019.

    The statement further mentioned that the court was informed about the missing server by the legal representatives of the Registrar of Companies, led by Ms. Iris.

    “The Lawyer told the court that, in her effort to reach out to EOCO due to the Court Order which sought to direct the EOCO to grant Gold Coast Fund Management access to the SERVER to copy specific data required by the Court to facilitate the determination of the Liquidation case, to her utter dismay, the authorities at the EOCO told her the said SERVER cannot be located.

    “The Aggrieved Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management consider the news of the missing SERVER a deliberate approach adopted by the government to deepen its delay tactics showcased on the Liquidation case since the year 2020.

    “Meanwhile, the same Government impeding the Liquidation process in court has insensitively conditioned the payment of the dying customers of Gold Coast Fund Management to the successful securing of Liquidation Order from Court.”

    Read the full statement below

    HEADS MUST ROLL AT EOCO FOR A MISSING SERVER WORTH OVER 3.5 BILLION GHANA CEDIS

    A SERVER which content valued over 3.5 billion Ghana Cedis is reported to have missing under the custody of EOCO. This revelation was brought to bear during a court section held on Wednesday, June 21st, 2023 when the Commercial Court Six (6) of the Accra High Court Division Sat on the Liquidation Case between the Registrar of Companies and Blackshield Capital Fund Management Limited, hitherto called; Gold Coast Fund Management, owned by Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom.

    The SERVER which belongs to the Gold Coast Fund Management Company and contains a backup data of its investors was confiscated by the EOCO through the directives of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the official regulator of Gold Coast Fund Management) after it has successfully revoked the company’s Operational Licence in November 8th, 2019 under the Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise policy initiated in the year 2018 by the government of Ghana under the NPP Akufo-Addo – Bawumia administration.

    News on the missing SERVER was informed to the court by the legal representation of the Registrar of Companies led by Ms. Iris. The Lawyer told the court that, in her effort to reach out to EOCO due to the Court Order which sought to direct the EOCO to grant Gold Coast Fund Management access to the SERVER to copy specific data require by the Court to facilitate the determination of the Liquidation case, to her utterly dismay, the authorities at the EOCO told her the said SERVER cannot be located.

    The Aggrieved Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management consider the news of the missing SERVER a deliberate approach adopted by the government to deepen its delay tactics showcased on the Liquidation case since the year 2020.

    Meanwhile, the same Government impeding the Liquidation process in court has insensitively conditioned the payment of the dying customers of Gold Coast Fund Management to the successful securing of Liquidation Order from Court.

    The question we are asking is, for how long must the dying customers continue to bear the brunt of a government policy (Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise) for the past five (5) years?

    We therefore make a passionate appeal as follows.

    The Government of His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should with a sense of humanity, rescind on the condition of securing Liquidation Order before it pays Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management and direct the Finance Ministry to advance money from either the Parliamentary approved Bailout package or from the 15 billion Ghana Cedis Stability Fund to the GBC Capital to pay off the Customers, whiles, the Liquidation case continue in court.

    The whole structure of EOCO should be brought under investigation to produce the missing SERVER with immediate effect.

    His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should give an order to EOCO to submit the missing SERVER to the court before/on July 3rd, 2023 thus the adjourned date for the Liquidation date for the smooth process of the case.

    The Media and the Civil Society Organisations should on humanitarian grounds push for immediate payment of the dying Gold Coast Customers since over 800 pensioners among Gold Coast Customers have died due to various health conditions they couldn’t raise money to fund medical treatment.

  • Gold Coast Fund clients seek accountability from EOCO regarding alleged ‘missing’ server

    Gold Coast Fund clients seek accountability from EOCO regarding alleged ‘missing’ server

    Aggrieved customers of Gold Coast Fund Management are demanding answers from the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for the institution’s alleged inability to produce a server needed for an ongoing court case.

    In a statement issued by the aggrieved customers, convener Charles Nyame noted that the server, which belongs to the Gold Coast Fund Management Company, contains backup data of its investors and was confiscated by EOCO after the company’s operational license was revoked in November 2019.

    However, during a court session held on June 21, 2023, in the Liquidation Case between the Registrar of Companies and Blackshield Capital Fund Management Limited, it was revealed that the server in EOCO’s custody had gone missing.

    The aggrieved customers are concerned that the missing server could hinder their efforts to recover their investments.

    They are calling on EOCO to provide a full explanation for the server’s disappearance and to take steps to ensure that it is recovered.

    The group thus called for EOCO to be investigated over the alleged missing server.

    HEADS MUST ROLL AT EOCO FOR A MISSING SERVER WORTH OVER 3.5 BILLION GHANA CEDIS

    A SERVER which content valued over 3.5 billion Ghana Cedis is reported to have missing under the custody of EOCO. This revelation was brought to bear during a court section held on Wednesday, June 21st, 2023 when the Commercial Court Six (6) of the Accra High Court Division Sat on the Liquidation Case between the Registrar of Companies and Blackshield Capital Fund Management Limited, hitherto called; Gold Coast Fund Management, owned by Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom.

    The SERVER which belongs to the Gold Coast Fund Management Company and contains a backup data of its investors was confiscated by the EOCO through the directives of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the official regulator of Gold Coast Fund Management) after it has successfully revoked the company’s Operational Licence in November 8th, 2019 under the Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise policy initiated in the year 2018 by the government of Ghana under the NPP Akufo-Addo – Bawumia administration.

    News on the missing SERVER was informed to the court by the legal representation of the Registrar of Companies led by Ms. Iris. The Lawyer told the court that, in her effort to reach out to EOCO due to the Court Order which sought to direct the EOCO to grant Gold Coast Fund Management access to the SERVER to copy specific data require by the Court to facilitate the determination of the Liquidation case, to her utterly dismay, the authorities at the EOCO told her the said SERVER cannot be located.

    The Aggrieved Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management consider the news of the missing SERVER a deliberate approach adopted by the government to deepen its delay tactics showcased on the Liquidation case since the year 2020.

    Meanwhile, the same Government impeding the Liquidation process in court has insensitively conditioned the payment of the dying customers of Gold Coast Fund Management to the successful securing of Liquidation Order from Court.

    The question we are asking is, for how long must the dying customers continue to bear the brunt of a government policy (Financial Sector Clean-up Exercise) for the past five (5) years?

    We therefore make passionate appeal as follows.

    1. The Government of His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should with sense of humanity, rescind on the condition of securing Liquidation Order before it pays Customers of Gold Coast Fund Management and direct the Finance Ministry to advance money from either the Parliamentary approved Bailout package or from the 15 billion Ghana Cedis Stability Fund to the GBC Capital to pay off the Customers, whiles, the Liquidation case continue in court.

    2. The whole structure of EOCO should be brought under investigation to produce the missing SERVER with immediate effect.

    3. His Excellency President Nana Akufo-Addo should give order to EOCO to submit the missing SERVER to the court before/on July 3rd, 2023 thus the adjourn date for the Liquidation date for the smooth process of the case.

    4. The Media and the Civil Society Organisations should on humanitarian grounds push for immediate payment of the dying Gold Coast Customers since over 800 pensioners among Gold Coast Customers have died due to various health conditions they couldn’t raised money to fund medical treatment.

  • EOCO and EFCC partner to fight trans-border organised crimes

    EOCO and EFCC partner to fight trans-border organised crimes

    Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) and Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) have taken a significant step in the fight against trans-border organized crimes by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

    The MOU was signed as a culmination of the three-day Cyber Peer Exchange Programme hosted by the EFCC in Nigeria, which saw the participation of West African countries.

    The main objective of the exchange programme was to enhance regional collaboration and cooperation in combating cybercrime and other forms of serious and organized crime.

    The programme provided an opportunity for both institutions to share best practices, address existing challenges related to regional cooperation mechanisms, and explore effective ways to collaborate in tackling cybercrime and other serious crimes.

    During the signing ceremony at the EFCC Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, Chairman AbdulKarim Chukkol acknowledged the previous MOU signed in 2019 that had not been fully operationalized. He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the newly signed MOU becomes more than just a piece of paper and that concrete actions are taken to implement its provisions.

    Chairman Chukkol also expressed the EFCC’s readiness to collaborate at any level, formal or informal, to ensure the success of joint efforts. He expressed confidence that EOCO, Ghana’s counterpart, will apply the valuable lessons learned during the programme to further strengthen their ongoing work.

    “I hope as you go back to your country, some of the things you see, the positives, you will go and put into use. And, if there is any need to talk to us or seek our assistance in anything, especially in terms of asset forfeiture, in terms of cybercrime investigation and prosecution; we are always ready to partner with you. We have no choice because crimes are transnational today and this engagement, I think, will be a warning that crime does not pay. Wherever you are, we are going to use our slogan which says; we will get you anywhere, anytime,” he said.

    Executive Director of EOCO, COP Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah (Mrs) was grateful to the EFCC for organising the peer exchange programme. She mentioned that her team has learnt so much during the programme and believes they are ready to work with her to change the tides of the office.

    She assured the acting Chair of the EFCC that EOCO will do all it can in its power to implement all the great strategies that EFCC has in place to fight crimes and to make EOCO an organisation of world repute.

    “I can say, the EFCC will be proud of us when you hear that the EOCO has also moved from the way we do things to a better way of doing it.

    “I am very hopeful that all your effort will not be in vain. We have to operationalize this MoU because, if we don’t, it means we have wasted everybody’s time, and I assure you that when we go back if there is anything we need some clarification or explanation, we will not hesitate to reach out to you”, she stated.

    The three-day Cyber Peer Exchange Programme was sponsored by GIZ Governance for Inclusive Development Programme, Co-funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

  • Two declared wanted by EOCO

    Two declared wanted by EOCO

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has released a new list of persons on its wanted list.

    The list, containing the details of two men, was shared on Twitter on June 6, 2023.

    The two men are Desmond Obukowo and Nosa Justice Iyoha.

    According to the EOCO, the two are wanted for their alleged offence of defrauding by false pretense and their involvement in money laundering.

    The anti-graft outfit added that any person with information on the said persons should contact their Head Office located adjacent to Old Parliament House Barnes Road, Accra, or the nearest police station.

    It may be recalled that EOCO, last month, released a list of persons on its wanted list.

    It contained details of three men, namely: Ezekiel Mensah Otoo, Nicholas Gyekye, and Derrick Obeng, a.k.a Chilling.

  • EOCO, GES sensitize SHS students on cyber activities

    EOCO, GES sensitize SHS students on cyber activities

    In partnership with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and with support from the GIZ Governance for Inclusive Development Programme, co-funded by the UK Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) has successfully conducted awareness sessions on prohibited cyber activities and related issues in selected Senior High Schools located in the Eastern Region.

    The five-day sensitisation programme which targeted some selected Senior High Schools in the Eastern Region started on the 15th May, 2023 and ended on 19th May, 2023.

    The objectives of the programme was to create awareness on the mandate of EOCO, Prohibited Cyber Activities and the rippling effects these activities have on individuals (perpetrators and victims), families, businesses and the country as a whole.

    The programme benefitted over Twenty-Nine Thousand, Five Hundred and twelve (29,512) students made up of 14,316 male students and 15,196 female students.

    The beneficiary schools included Akuse Methodist Senior High School, Akro Senior High, Manyakrobo Senior High, Ghana Senior High, and New Jaubeng Senior High School. Others were Oti Boateng Senior High School, Larteh Presby Senior High School, Mampong Presby Senior High School, Adonteng Senior High School, Okuapemman Senior High School and Nifa Senior High School. Also, Yilokrobo Senior High School, Suhum Senior High School, Abuakwah State College, Nsawam Senior High School, St. Martin Senior High School benefitted from the programme.

    In an introductory remark, the Eastern Regional Director, Mr. Justice Agbemava stated the purpose of the visit and gave a brief overview of the spate of cybercrime activities in the country and their negative effects on the nation and the individuals who are involved. He also added that despite various efforts being implemented by the Office to curb this menace, statistics still reveal that Ghana is increasingly becoming a hub for cybercrime activities hence the need for EOCO to reach as many young people as they can to spread awareness of this menace.

    Head of Public Affairs, EOCO, Mrs. Faustina Lartey in her presentation, stressed on how the use of the internet has made the world a global village. She stated that despite the many positive things that the internet can be used for, some recalcitrant persons have resorted to using it for unexplainable negativities such as cybercrime.

    She mentioned, Romance and Dating Scam, Mobile Money Fraud, Scholarship Scam, Hacking, Advance Fee Fraud (419), Examination Results Scam, Spam, Phishing and Identity Theft among others. While explaining these various types of cybercrimes to the students, she mentioned that persons engaged in advance fee fraud could spend up to twenty-five years’ imprisonment when convicted.

    In addition, she emphasized that ignorance of the law is no excuse and that children who engage in these crimes could end up in the Juvenile Correctional Centre.

    Mrs. Faustina Lartey, encouraged students who are engaged in hacking, that as a matter of urgency, should desist from it. She advised them to concentrate on their studies to pass their exams and apply for a course in “Ethical Hacking” and its related courses rather than becoming black hackers.

    She concluded by stating that, it is important that Ghanaians work hard to maintain a positive global image of the country in order to appeal to foreign investors and make it a more attractive tourist destination. She further encouraged all persons present, to report perpetrators of cybercrimes to EOCO and other law enforcement agencies stressing on the protection of privacy and safety of complainants.

    Also embedded in the presentation was a special message for all students from the Executive Director – EOCO, Mrs. Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo Danquah encouraging students to take their studies seriously and desist from engaging in criminal activities which could end up truncating their educational ambitions.

    Heads and teachers of the beneficiary schools numbering about 167 were elated and encouraged the team to make routine visits to remind students of the need to desist from engaging in such criminal activities and also pledged to share the information with family and friends who were not privileged to benefit from the programme.

  • We are not recruiting officers online – EOCO clarifies

    We are not recruiting officers online – EOCO clarifies

    The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has not put out any advertisement for recruitment as suggested on various social media platforms.

    In a statement, EOCO noted that its attention has been drawn to fake recruitment offers being associated to its office.

    According to EOCO, it does not engage the services of third parties in its recruitment process, hence the general public should be wary of such advertisements.

    “We therefore advise the general public not to heed to, or pay monies to any individual or group of persons with the view of facilitating recruitment into the Office,” the statement read.

    “EOCO shall not be responsible or liable in any way for claims, losses or liabilities,” it stated to individuals who may go ahead to engage such fraudsters.

    Meanwhile, EOCO is on the heels of the perpetrators of such fake advertisements. Persons found culpable will be arrested and prosecuted.