A key suspect in the Economic and Organised Crime Office’s (EOCO) investigation into the alleged misappropriation of about GH¢55 million at the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCCoD) has begun quietly refunding part of the suspected proceeds, in a development that investigators say strengthens efforts to recover state funds.
The suspect, Gerald Appiah, former Accountant of IMCCoD, has voluntarily commenced refunding monies linked to the ongoing investigation, according to EOCO.
The anti-graft agency, however, stressed that the repayments do not absolve Mr Appiah or any other suspect of criminal liability, insisting that investigations will continue until all facts are established.
The latest development is expected to deal a significant blow to the public defence mounted by Dennis “Miracles” Aboagye, former Executive Secretary of IMCCoD and current Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2028 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.
Mr Aboagye and Mr Appiah are under investigation over the alleged disappearance of approximately GH¢55 million during Mr Aboagye’s tenure as Executive Secretary between August 1, 2022, and February 2, 2025.
EOCO said the suspects are being investigated for alleged offences including conspiracy to steal, stealing, using public office for profit, causing financial loss to the state, dissipation of public funds, defrauding by false pretences, money laundering, and related offences.
In a statement issued on Monday, July 13, EOCO described Mr Appiah’s decision to begin making refunds without compulsion as a significant development in its efforts to recover suspected proceeds of crime.
The Office did not disclose how much has so far been refunded, explaining that investigations remain active.
EOCO maintained that voluntary restitution neither terminates investigations nor shields any suspect from prosecution if sufficient evidence is established.
The Office reiterated that recovering suspected proceeds of economic crime remains one of its core mandates and vowed to pursue all unlawfully acquired assets in accordance with the law.
It further assured the public that investigations are being conducted professionally, impartially and strictly on the basis of evidence, while reminding the public that all suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
Miracles Arrested
Dennis Edward Aboagye, popularly known as Dennis “Miracles” Aboagye, was arrested at the Kotoka International Airport upon his return to Ghana as part of EOCO’s investigations into the alleged financial and procurement irregularities involving approximately GH¢55 million.
According to EOCO, the investigation was triggered by a petition from the current Executive Secretary of IMCCoD requesting further investigations into findings contained in a forensic audit covering the period from August 1, 2022, to February 2, 2025.
The Office said the audit uncovered suspected misappropriation, diversion, misapplication and theft of public funds.
EOCO disclosed that following fresh findings made last week, it activated an operational plan to arrest Mr Aboagye.
Investigators said a Stop Order had been placed on him before his return to Ghana to prevent any travel that could interfere with the investigations, although he had already left the country before the directive took effect.
The Ghana Immigration Service executed the Stop Order immediately upon his arrival at the airport and handed him over to EOCO investigators.
Mr Aboagye later accompanied investigators on a search operation, which EOCO said is ongoing.
The Office indicated that he would be granted bail in accordance with the Constitution, while Mr Appiah is also expected to satisfy his bail conditions as investigations continue.
EOCO’s statement came after NPP supporters massed up at the agency’s headquarters in Accra demanding Mr Aboagye’s release, while party officials criticised the arrest and alleged that he had initially been denied access to his lawyers.
EOCO rejected suggestions of wrongdoing, insisting that the investigation is being conducted strictly within the confines of the law and that further updates will be provided as the case progresses.
