Legal officer at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Paa Bruce Sam, has explained the agency’s approach to bail and addressed concerns from the public over what some consider to be “high” bail conditions.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, he said EOCO has been taken to court by some individuals challenging bail terms, and the matter is currently before the Supreme Court for a decision on appropriate conditions.
“The case is in court, and the court will decide,” Sam said.
He further explained that under the Criminal Procedure Act, 1960 (Act 30), there are three types of bail. EOCO typically grants what is called police enquiry bail.
“In Act 30, it is stated that we consider the nature of the offence and the person involved when granting bail. So, for EOCO, we look at the crime committed and give bail according to the seriousness of the offence,” he said.
His comments come after some members of the public criticised EOCO for setting stringent bail conditions and not being flexible for individuals they summon.
Examples cited include Chairman Wontumi, dancehall artiste Shatta Wale, and other public figures.
Shatta Wale, whose real name is Charles Nii Armah Mensah, was recently released from EOCO custody after nearly two days in detention.
He was freed following a variation of his bail conditions, providing a temporary respite in the high-profile case surrounding his acquisition of a luxury vehicle.