Private legal practitioner Austin Brako Powers has explained that the freezing of Dennis Miracles Aboagye’s accounts by the court does not amount to a declaration that he has committed an offence. 

His comment follows an order by the Accra High Court freezing five bank accounts and four landed properties belonging to Dennis Miracles Aboagye as part of an ongoing investigation by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) into alleged financial and procurement-related irregularities involving a sum of GH¢55 million. 

The order bars any transactions on the accounts and prevents the sale or transfer of the properties pending the outcome of the investigations. 

Speaking to Class News, Austin Brako Powers said the freezing order only indicates that Miracles Aboagye is under investigation for possible infractions. 

“It is not an indication that he has committed any crime but it is an indication that he’s being investigated for the possible commission of some crimes against the Republic,” he said. 

He explained that under the law, investigative bodies such as EOCO can freeze properties including bank accounts but must obtain a confirmatory order from the High Court. 

According to him, Miracles  Aboagye has the right to apply to the High Court to vary the order but must provide evidence showing that the funds or properties are not connected to the subject of investigation. 

“You must be able to prove certain things, the basis of which the High Court may look upon it and rule in your favour,” he added. 

Austin Brako Powers said the freezing order is a preservation measure intended to protect the subject of an investigation and prevent interference while investigations continue. 

He added that the next steps will depend on the outcome of EOCO’s investigations after which the matter may be forwarded to the Attorney General to determine whether criminal proceedings should be pursued.