The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has escalated its investigation into the bribery case involving former Goldman Sachs banker and former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director, Asante Kwaku Berko, following his conviction in the United States over alleged involvement in a scheme to bribe Ghanaian government officials in connection with the development and financing of a power plant.
The move follows Mr. Berko’s conviction in the US, which carries significant implications for the ongoing investigation into Ghanaian aspects of the case, and represents a substantial deepening of EOCO’s scrutiny of the situation.
The Office stated that asset tracing and recovery are a primary component of its investigative strategy, extending beyond the initial US request and encompassing a broader examination of financial transactions, beneficiaries, assets, and the proceeds derived from or connected to suspected criminal conduct. EOCO will meticulously analyze all data available, including financial records, to determine potential criminal activity and pursue its recovery.
In a statement released on Monday, August 10, 2026, EOCO emphasized that the investigation in Ghana commenced last year following a US request for information regarding individuals considered relevant to the bribery case. The request included details on a former Minister of State and other public officials. The Office has since been collaborating with the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Justice, monitoring proceedings in the United States, while adhering to all applicable legal protocols. The investigation is currently being conducted under the guidance of the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Justice, with ongoing monitoring through international cooperation channels.
The Attorney-General has directed EOCO to intensify its investigations, recognizing that information is being received through lawful international cooperation. EOCO has cautioned that Mr. Berko’s conviction in the United States does not automatically establish criminal liability against any individual in Ghana, stating that any name appearing in evidence obtained through international cooperation will be assessed independently based on the evidence relevant to that individual and in accordance with Ghanaian law. EOCO also emphasized that it will continue to follow the financial trail but would not disclose sensitive operational details that could undermine ongoing investigations or potential prosecutions.
US prosecutors previously indicated that Mr. Berko was convicted after evidence showed that he conspired to pay more than $1 million in bribes to Ghanaian officials in connection with a power plant project. EOCO has declared Emmanuel Ababio wanted over alleged fraud.
This incident underscores the growing focus on financial accountability and potential criminal activity related to the Ghanaian power plant project, intensifying scrutiny across various sectors.
The investigation is being led by EOCO, and its scope includes a detailed analysis of financial transactions and potential assets and proceeds. EOCO acknowledges that the US prosecution does not automatically establish criminal liability, stressing the importance of adhering to Ghanaian law in all subsequent actions.
EOCO has detailed the ongoing investigation’s strategy, highlighting its commitment to thoroughness and meticulous tracking of financial activity, ensuring the preservation of evidence and the pursuit of accountability. The Office will continue to monitor the situation closely, and further details will be released as they become available. The investigation is supported by a substantial amount of data collected and analyzed by EOCO personnel.
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Tags: EOCO, Bribery, Ghana, Power Plant, US Prosecution, Financial Investigation
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Source: Adom Online
