Private legal practitioner and member of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, Martin Kpebu, has called for clearer laws on search warrants following the raid on the residence of former Bank of Ghana Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Kpebu slammed how National Security operatives searched Dr. Addison’s home on March 19.
He argued that the failure to provide a physical copy of the warrant to the former governor undermined due process.
“The National Security claims they showed him the warrant, but that’s not enough. The law requires that he be given a copy as well. Without that, the search is half-baked,” he stated.
Mr. Kpebu further expressed concern about the way the operation was carried out, noting that it instilled fear rather than confidence in the system.
“If they had given him a copy of the warrant and informed him properly, people would have more confidence in the process. But when you just barge into someone’s home like that, it only creates fear and panic,” he added.
Comparing Ghana’s search warrant procedures to those in the United States, Mr. Kpebu suggested that reforms are needed to ensure fairness and transparency.
“In other jurisdictions like the U.S., they give the person a copy of the warrant and specify the time for the search. That way, the individual knows exactly what is happening, and there’s no room for abuse,” he explained.
He also stressed the need for stronger legal frameworks to regulate National Security operations.
“We need to set new rules for warrants, especially when it comes to National Security, so that justice prevails. Things must be done according to law. That way, no matter which government is in power, the law will be followed,” he asserted.
Mr. Kpebu further warned against selective application of the law, saying, “If we don’t insist on following due process now, when the NPP comes to power, they will also do the same thing. We must use the law to guide us and ensure fairness.”
His comments come amid growing public outcry over the operation, during which National Security operatives reportedly disabled CCTV cameras and ransacked Dr. Addison’s property. Many have since raised concerns about the legality and motives behind the raid.
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