In a chaotic scene that has left residents of Kumasi in shock, officials suspected to be from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) allegedly stormed the residence of Maxwell Kofi Jumah, the former Managing Director of GIHOC Distilleries and former Mayor of Kumasi Tuesday morning.
The operation, which reportedly involved two Nissan pickup trucks full of personnel, has drawn heavy criticism for its aggressive nature and lack of formal protocol.
Violent Entry
Witnesses report that the officers arrived at the property and forced entry without presenting official identification or warrants to the occupants.
According to sources on the scene, the officials proceeded to break down every door in the house, systematically ransacking the rooms.
The search was reportedly exhaustive, extending from Mr. Jumah’s private bedroom to the lavatories.
The ensuing commotion and the shouts of the household occupants quickly drew a crowd of neighbors who gathered to witness the unfolding chaos.
Spokesperson Reacts:
Speaking to the media shortly after the incident, Paul Yandoh, spokesperson and aide to Mr. Jumah, expressed outrage over the “brutal” conduct of the suspected officials.
He confirmed that the former MD was currently traveling and questioned why a formal invitation was not issued if the agency required his cooperation.
“It is deeply unsettling to see EOCO act in this manner, especially when the institution is supposed to be governed by the rule of law,” Yandoh stated.
Sounding upset, Mr Yandoh said “I want to remind these officials that power is transient. They should not complain in the future if the same treatment is meted out to them once they are out of office.”
Community Shock and Disappointed:
The raid has sent ripples of fear and concern through the neighborhood, with residents questioning the necessity of such force against a well-known public figure.
Mary Awuah, a neighbor, described the scene as “warlike.”
“I am still shaking. I saw officers in full uniform as if they were going to battle. I am surprised that a former MP for Asokwa and Mayor of Kumasi could not be invited in a civil manner,” she remarked.
Kwasi Danso, a local bicycle repairer, expressed a sense of disillusionment regarding the treatment of public servants.
He noted that the sight of every door being smashed open made him wonder if aspiring to high public office was worth the eventual scrutiny and perceived harassment.
As of the time of this report, EOCO has yet to issue an official statement confirming the operation or the specific allegations that prompted the raid.
Story By Michael Ofosu-Afriyie,
Kumasi.
