The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed that its officers attempted to arrest the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, in connection with an ongoing investigation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, EOCO said the attempted arrest followed two invitations extended to the MP in February 2026 to assist with the investigation, which it said were not honoured.
“The Office has since taken steps to secure his attendance in accordance with the law and the attempted arrest today represents one of the lawful steps,” EOCO said.
The attempted arrest was captured in videos circulating on social media, showing a confrontation involving individuals at the scene.
According to EOCO, the situation escalated during the operation and its officers decided not to proceed with the arrest after assessing that a counter action could endanger public safety.
EOCO said it had identified two individuals who, based on the circumstances captured in the video, allegedly intervened to facilitate the MP’s escape.
“The conduct of these individuals is being assessed and the Office will take such lawful steps as may be appropriate,” it said.
The Office also confirmed that Mr Baffour Awuah subsequently proceeded to the precincts of Parliament to seek sanctuary, although Parliament is currently on recess.
EOCO said it recognised and respected the constitutional privileges and immunities of Members of Parliament and would conduct its operations within the Constitution and applicable laws.
It, however, stressed that parliamentary membership did not automatically terminate an investigation or place an individual beyond the reach of the law.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Membership of Parliament does not, by itself, bring an investigation to an end or place an individual beyond the reach of the law,” EOCO said.
The Office added that it would not take any action inconsistent with parliamentary privilege or other constitutional protections.
EOCO said the investigation remained active and that it would review the circumstances surrounding the attempted arrest, including available video evidence, before determining its next steps.
