In a recent statement, the Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Mr. Raymond Archer, refuted allegations that two lawyers representing clients in the ongoing Power Distribution Services (PDS) investigation were arrested while performing their professional duties. Speaking on Newsfile, Mr. Archer clarified that the individuals in question were invited by investigators as suspects, not as legal representatives.
The investigation into the controversial PDS transaction, which has drawn significant public and political attention, is being conducted jointly by EOCO and the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI). According to Mr. Archer, the probe was initiated following a petition from the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) and not due to political commentary or campaign statements made by former President John Dramani Mahama.
Lawyers Were Invited as Suspects
Addressing the claims of wrongful arrest, Mr. Archer emphasized that EOCO did not detain the lawyers while they were representing clients. Instead, he explained that the lawyers, identified as Sophia Akuffo and Mr. Premo from the law firm Minka-Premo & Co., had been invited earlier as suspects in the case. Due to scheduling conflicts, their initial appearance was postponed at their request.
“When the lawyers later arrived at EOCO premises, they were processed in connection with the investigation as suspects,” Mr. Archer stated, adding that another legal team was present to represent other individuals under investigation. He underscored EOCO’s standard procedure, noting, “We don’t invite lawyers. We invite suspects, and then they come with their lawyers.”
Mr. Premo was subsequently granted bail on health grounds after reportedly falling ill during the process.
Bail Conditions Reflect Severity of Case
The EOCO Executive Director also addressed concerns about the stringent bail conditions imposed on suspects in this matter. He argued that the bail amounts were proportionate to the seriousness of the issues under investigation.
“When you hear bail, people should not focus on the amount. People should focus on what is at stake,” he explained.
Reports circulating in the media have alleged that funds amounting to GH¢850 million, belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), may have been misappropriated from a CalBank account. However, Mr. Archer refrained from confirming this figure, cautioning against premature conclusions.
“The fact that somebody says GH¢100 million is missing from CalBank does not necessarily mean it is true,” he said. He reiterated that investigators are methodically examining the financial records and other evidence tied to the petition.
Investigation Independent of Political Commentary
Mr. Archer took pains to distance EOCO’s ongoing investigation from political debates surrounding the failed PDS concession agreement. He stated that while public and political discussions are inevitable, they have no bearing on EOCO’s professional inquiry into the matter.
“There could be 20 investigations into PDS,” he remarked, “but this particular case is tied strictly to a specific petition currently under investigation.”
A Call for Responsible Commentary
The EOCO Executive Director concluded by urging restraint in public discussions about the case. He warned against misinformation that could potentially prejudice the investigation and assured Ghanaians that EOCO and BNI are conducting a thorough and professional inquiry.
As this high-profile investigation unfolds, it remains critical for all stakeholders to allow due process to run its course without interference or undue speculation. EOCO’s commitment to transparency and accountability will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in uncovering the truth behind the PDS transaction.
