The Ghana Police Service has arrested convicted fraudster Eric Afoakwa, popularly known as “Chad,” after years on the run following his conviction for multiple financial crimes.
According to the Police, Afoakwa was apprehended on Monday, July 6, while allegedly preparing to leave the country in an operation led by the Anti-Armed Robbery Unit on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno.
Afoakwa was convicted in absentia by the Accra High Court in 2019 on five of six charges, including money laundering, defrauding by false pretences, forgery of official documents, and tax evasion.
The trial judge, Justice Georgina Mensah Datsa, sentenced him to eight years’ imprisonment, with the sentences to run concurrently. The court also ordered him to refund $132,660 to the complainant.
Following the conviction, Afoakwa reportedly disappeared, prompting the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to declare him wanted and appeal to the public for information that could lead to his arrest.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Ghana Police Service confirmed that Afoakwa would be handed over to EOCO to facilitate the enforcement of the High Court’s judgment.
The Police said the arrest demonstrates the security agencies’ resolve to track down convicted persons who attempt to evade justice, stressing that fugitives will continue to be pursued until they are brought before the law.
The Service further reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with relevant state institutions to ensure that individuals convicted of criminal offences are held accountable and made to face the full rigours of the law.
