The Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) has achieved a record-breaking recovery of GHS 337,476,119.59 in funds lost to economic and organised crime, exceeding its 2025 target by over GHS 133,476,119.59. Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr Dominic Akrutinga Ayine, lauded EOCO’s Executive Director, Raymond Archer, for this significant achievement at a Government’s Accountability Series Press Conference in Accra.
Dr Ayine explained that the recoveries comprise both direct deposits into the Exhibit Account, currently totaling GHs 194,806,691, and indirect payments to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Consolidated Fund, amounting to GHs 142,668,428.59.
“This is the highest recovery in the history of the agency,” Dr Ayine stated, emphasizing the importance of strong institutional leadership. He further noted that the success reflects positively on President John Dramani Mahama’s support for both his office and EOCO, adding, “Without his committed support…we would not be here today.”
In a separate but related development, EOCO is investigating online fraudulent investment schemes and has already recovered $15 million. Dr Ayine revealed that this accomplishment has garnered international attention, particularly for EOCO’s innovative use of non-conviction-based asset recovery and its ability to utilize local laws to target and reclaim illicit funds held in foreign jurisdictions.
The United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and the National Economic Crime Centre formally congratulated EOCO on November 5, 2025. Dr Ayine extended his gratitude to EOCO’s staff, particularly Mr. Archer and his deputies, for their dedication.
He also thanked international partners like the UK’s NCA, as well as Zodiac Custody-UK, Chainanalys-UK, OK Exchange (OKX)-UK, and various European banks for their collaboration in facilitating the investigation and recovery of these assets, promoting a safer virtual asset space.
Acknowledging the role of the judiciary, Dr Ayine expressed his gratitude to Justice Gwendolyn Millicent Owusu of the High Court (Economic and Financial Division) for her guidance. He highlighted the rapid transformation EOCO has undergone in fulfilling its mandate.
Furthermore, Dr Ayine announced the completion of investigations into high-profile cases involving the National Signal Bureau and the Buffer Stock Company, with trials already underway. Additional cases have been finalized and are awaiting review by his Office before charges are filed.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE