Renowned legal practitioner Martin Kpebu was reportedly arrested by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) earlier today on allegations of obstructing an officer in the lawful execution of their duties.
The arrest and subsequent detention of the high-profile lawyer, known for his vocal stance on anti-corruption and governance issues, has drawn immediate attention within legal and political circles.
Sources close to the matter indicate that Mr. Kpebu was taken into custody by OSP officials at their premises.
Following his detention, he was granted bail under specific conditions, which his legal team immediately set out to fulfill.
The stringent bail requirements reportedly included:
- Showing proof of landed property registered in Mr. Kpebu’s name.
- Providing one surety.
Mr. Kpebu’s lawyers are said to have promptly initiated the process to secure the required documentation and surety.
However, upon their return to the OSP offices to complete the bail formalities and secure his release, they were informed that Mr. Kpebu was no longer at the office, sparking confusion and concern among his legal representation.
While details of the alleged obstruction remain scant, the OSP Act grants the agency wide powers to investigate and prosecute acts of corruption and corruption-related offences, and interfering with an officer’s duty constitutes a serious offence under Ghanaian law.
Mr. Kpebu has recently been a prominent figure in the national discourse, particularly in matters related to the OSP itself.
His reported arrest also follows recent news that he intends to add his name to the growing list of petitioners seeking the removal of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, which would be the 17th such petition.
The sudden development regarding his whereabouts after his lawyers had prepared to meet the bail terms has added an element of mystery to the ongoing situation. The status of his bail process and his current location are yet to be officially clarified by the OSP.