Samuel Atta Akyea, the legal counsel for former National Signals Bureau (NSB) boss Kwabena Adu-Boahene, has condemned the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for re-arresting his client shortly after his court-ordered release, calling the move a clear violation of due process.
Adu-Boahene, who faces charges including theft, money laundering, and causing financial loss to the state, was initially remanded on Friday, May 2, 2025, for seven working days over allegations of witness tampering. His remand was expected to end on Monday, May 12, but he was reportedly re-arrested shortly after his brief release.
Speaking to journalists on the court premises on Tuesday, May 13, Atta Akyea criticised EOCO’s handling of the case, arguing that his client’s continued detention is both unfair and legally questionable.
“At the last sitting, the judge ordered that he should have his freedom on Monday, May 12. They claim there is another matter they are investigating concerning him, but the question is, why was he not rearrested before his remand expired? Why wait until the last minute?”
Atta Akyea described the re-arrest as an attempt to frustrate his client’s defence, suggesting that Adu-Boahene’s treatment was driven by a personal agenda rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.
“This looks like a clear case of someone being targeted for prolonged detention without just cause. Even murder suspects are entitled to bail under our laws. Why is this man being treated differently?” he asked.
The prominent lawyer also noted that Adu-Boahene is not a flight risk, as he is already on substantial bail, further questioning the basis for the sudden second arrest.
“He’s on huge bail, he has deep ties to the country, and he’s not going anywhere. This is clearly a case of overreach. Ghana’s legal system must not be bent for the sake of one individual,” Atta Akyea added.
While the specific grounds for the second arrest remain unclear, the Attorney General had previously indicated that Adu-Boahene is also being investigated in connection with an internet connectivity contract at Ghana Water Limited.
Meanwhile, the main case involving the alleged diversion of GH₵49.1 million is set to continue on May 26, 2025, with a case management conference. The state is expected to disclose all its witness statements to the defence by May 20.
