Ken Ofori-Atta takes legal action against police officers for alleged unauthorized home search and violation of privacy.

Former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has filed a lawsuit against two senior police officers, DSP Bismark Boakye Ansah and Chief Inspector Mensah, following an alleged unlawful raid on his residence in Cantonments, Accra. The incident, which took place on February 11, 2025, involved a team of about 12 security personnel, including individuals in military and police uniforms, as well as plainclothes operatives. According to Mr. Ofori-Atta’s legal claim, the team entered his home without prior notice, failed to present a warrant, and proceeded to conduct a thorough search of private areas such as bedrooms, the kitchen, and closets. The former minister, who was out of the country for medical treatment at the time, asserts that this invasion of his privacy has severely tarnished his reputation both locally and internationally.

In his lawsuit, Mr. Ofori-Atta is seeking several legal remedies, including a declaration that the security personnel’s actions were unlawful, compensation for trespassing and breach of privacy, as well as aggravated damages. He is also requesting a perpetual injunction to prevent any further unauthorized intrusion into his property. Despite attempts to seek clarification from the National Intelligence Bureau, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chief of the Defence Staff, he claims that no explanation has been given regarding the purpose or legality of the raid. He further alleges that the operatives filmed the entire search using a mobile phone, an act that he believes further contributed to the violation of his privacy.

The incident has sparked political controversy, with Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin condemning the raid as unconstitutional and a dangerous precedent for governance. He emphasized that such actions undermine democratic principles and erode public confidence in law enforcement institutions. On the other hand, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has advised that legal disputes be handled in court rather than debated in Parliament. As the legal proceedings unfold, the accused officers have been given eight days to respond to the lawsuit, marking the beginning of what could be a high-profile case in Ghana’s legal and political landscape.