The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is set to conduct extensive lifestyle audits targeting celebrities and individuals suspected of amassing unjustifiable wealth, prompted by the recent guilty plea of Ghanaian social media influencer and musician, Hajia4reall, in a $2 million romance scam case.
The decision reflects mounting worries about the perceived inability of Ghanaian authorities to stem the tide of illicit enrichment.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Upfront, Edward Cudjoe, the head of Administration and Investigations at EOCO, revealed ongoing efforts to initiate lifestyle audits for those with unexplained wealth.
“We are leading the charge by ourselves, making certain proposals for the amendment of the law to align with international standards. This ensures that any gaps in your financial profile are substantiated by your earnings. Any disparities must be clarified to law enforcement, and the burden of proof rests on the individual to explain the origin of those resources,” Edward Cudjoe stated.
Cudjoe stressed EOCO’s determination to shift away from the current legal framework, proposing amendments to align with international standards.
Under the proposed changes, individuals would be required to substantiate any gaps in their financial profiles based on their earnings.
The burden of proof would lie with the individual to explain the origin of their resources, even before becoming subjects of investigations.
Former Auditor General Daniel Domelevo added his voice to the conversation, cautioning that Ghana faces the risk of succumbing to the influence of drug dealers if lifestyle audits are not promptly implemented.
Domelevo emphasized the inadequacy of current systems, urging a consideration of individual privacy concerns in the broader context of national interest and collective well-being.
“Our systems are not fit for purpose. The argument about invading someone’s privacy needs to be considered in the context of national interest or our collective well-being. If not addressed promptly, we risk compromising individual rights for the greater good.”
He warned that a failure to address the issue promptly could compromise individual rights for the greater good.