The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has strongly denied any involvement in an alleged raid on the residence of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta. This response comes after reports surfaced that on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, a group of individuals dressed in military uniforms stormed Ofori-Atta’s home in Cantonments while he was out of the country.
The incident has sparked widespread speculation, with many questioning the identity of those behind the operation.
According to multiple sources, Ofori-Atta has been in the United States since early 2025 for medical reasons. Official records indicate that he formally notified the Chief of Staff of his travel, making his absence from the country publicly known. The timing of the alleged raid, coupled with the fact that the former minister was not present, has raised concerns about its true nature and intent.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, February 12, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng categorically dismissed the allegations that his office was responsible for the reported operation. He made it clear that the OSP does not conduct covert or unannounced raids and that its investigative procedures are transparent and unmistakable.
“Mr. Ofori-Atta, the OSP did not raid your house on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, or on any other day. Mr. Ofori-Atta, the OSP did not cause any person, however uniformed, to raid your house on February 11, 2025, or on any other day. That could not have been the OSP, and that is not our style. If the OSP enters your premises, you will not be in doubt as to where the OSP had come from, and your lawyers will not have cause to inquire as to whether it was the OSP,” Agyebeng asserted.
The Special Prosecutor went on to explain that the OSP follows a strict, well-documented process when conducting searches or investigations involving high-profile individuals. Any action taken by the office is done in accordance with legal procedures, and its officials are clearly identified.
“We have our unique methods of searches that are specifically designed to identify ourselves, not just by stating that we are from the OSP,” he added, further dispelling any claims that his office could have been involved in an operation that lacked clear identification.
Agyebeng suggested that the reported raid was either staged or carried out by imposters attempting to discredit the OSP and disrupt its ongoing investigations. He noted that similar tactics have been employed in the past to create public mistrust and weaken anti-corruption efforts.
“Our intelligence points us to state that the purported raid of Mr. Ofori-Atta’s residence was staged or, at best, an imposter action in an attempt to cause disfavor for the OSP and to derail the investigation. The OSP is never deterred by such occurrences, and the investigations will continue as prescribed by law,” he declared.
This statement has only added to the growing intrigue surrounding the case. If the alleged raid was indeed an act of deception, it raises critical questions about who orchestrated it and for what purpose. The possibility that individuals could impersonate law enforcement officers to carry out such an operation is a cause for concern, and it underscores the need for further investigation.
Meanwhile, the OSP has officially declared Ken Ofori-Atta a suspect in four high-profile corruption investigations. These include cases related to the National Cathedral project, Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), and two other undisclosed matters. The declaration marks a significant development in the fight against corruption, as Ofori-Atta’s tenure as Finance Minister has been the subject of intense scrutiny over the handling of state funds and procurement processes.
The National Cathedral project, in particular, has been a major point of contention, with accusations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency surrounding its funding. Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML), another case under investigation, has been linked to contracts and financial transactions that allegedly lack due diligence and accountability. The remaining two cases, though yet to be publicly detailed, are expected to involve financial dealings that took place during Ofori-Atta’s time in office.
The announcement of his status as a suspect has fueled public debate, with many calling for a thorough and impartial investigation. While some argue that the allegations must be treated with the utmost seriousness, others believe that Ofori-Atta should be given the opportunity to defend himself against any claims of wrongdoing.
In response to the OSP’s declaration, legal analysts have pointed out that being named as a suspect does not equate to guilt. However, it does indicate that there is sufficient reason to warrant a full-scale investigation into his activities. If evidence is found to support allegations of corruption, Ofori-Atta could face legal consequences, including prosecution.
The former Finance Minister has not yet publicly addressed the allegations or the reported raid on his residence. His legal team is expected to release a statement soon, clarifying his position on the matter and responding to the OSP’s claims.
Political reactions to the unfolding events have been mixed. Supporters of Ofori-Atta insist that the investigation is politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his reputation, while critics argue that the case is a necessary step in holding public officials accountable for their actions. The opposition has seized on the developments to reinforce their calls for greater transparency and accountability in governance, urging the government to allow the OSP to carry out its mandate without interference.
As the situation unfolds, the OSP is expected to intensify its investigations into the corruption cases involving Ofori-Atta. The public is keenly watching how the process will unfold, particularly in light of past corruption cases that have failed to yield tangible outcomes. Many Ghanaians hope that this case will mark a turning point in the country’s anti-corruption efforts, ensuring that those implicated in financial mismanagement are held responsible.
The controversy surrounding the alleged raid, coupled with the OSP’s ongoing investigations, adds another layer of complexity to an already heated political climate. Whether this case will lead to actual prosecutions or fade into political maneuvering remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: the spotlight on corruption in Ghana is brighter than ever, and the demand for accountability continues to grow.
