Law enforcement agencies can arrest, search with or without warrants - OSP

Samuel Appiah Darko is the Director of the Strategy, Research, and Communication Division at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). He clarified that law enforcement agencies can arrest and search with or without a court warrant.

On JoyNews’ The Law on Sunday, April 13, he stated that it is wrong to say law enforcement must always obtain warrants. Agencies like the OSP, EOCO, and Ghana Police have this power. They can arrest and search both with and without a warrant.

Darko emphasized that these powers are clearly outlined in Ghanaian law. He explained that there are situations where a warrant is not needed to enter premises.

He referred to section 10 of Act 30 for details on these circumstances. This section outlines when law enforcement can legally arrest someone without prior court approval.

It includes cases where a suspect is caught committing an offence or when there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity.