The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has initiated a comprehensive financial 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 related to a power plant development project. The move follows Mr. Berko’s conviction in connection with a US prosecution alleging bribery and corruption, a case involving substantial payments to officials in exchange for favorable treatment.
The investigation, which began last year following a request from US authorities, has focused heavily on tracing funds and assets potentially linked to the bribery. EOCO stated its objective is to preserve and recover any assets derived from or connected to the suspected criminal conduct, employing all available legal avenues and evidence. The office detailed its initial focus on examining financial transactions, identifying beneficiaries, assets, and the proceeds associated with the alleged criminal activity, and pursuing these through appropriate legal channels.
In a statement released on August 10, 2026, EOCO asserted that asset tracing and recovery constitutes a core component of its investigations within Ghana, recognizing the significance of the case’s connection to the country’s economic landscape. The Office emphasized that it would meticulously examine a range of financial records, including transactions, to uncover potential illicit gains. The investigation’s scope extends to identifying individuals whose names appear in evidence obtained through international cooperation, and the agency intends to assess the evidence independently, in accordance with Ghanaian law.
The Attorney-General of Ghana engaged US authorities to support the ongoing investigation, directing EOCO to intensify its efforts. EOCO cautioned, however, that Mr. Berko’s conviction in the United States does not automatically establish criminal liability against any individual in Ghana. It stated that anyone whose name appears in evidence obtained through international cooperation would be assessed independently, based on the evidence relevant to that individual and in compliance with Ghanaian law.
EOCO has previously indicated that its investigation in Ghana has been limited to the initial phase, with the agency continuing to monitor developments through lawful international cooperation. The Office has also cautioned against disclosing sensitive operational details that could compromise ongoing investigations or potential prosecutions. The investigation has included scrutiny of Mr. Berko’s past, referencing a previously reported request from the US authorities for information on individuals considered relevant to the bribery case. The agency has referenced Emmanuel Ababio, alleged to be involved in fraud, and has stated that it would continue to follow the financial trail, though it declined to provide specific details of the investigative strategy. The case represents a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the power plant project and its potential implications for Ghana’s economy.
This investigation has been prompted by the conviction of Mr. Berko in the United States, which has triggered a deeper examination of the financial connections within Ghana, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and combating corruption.
Source: Adom Online
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Source: Adom Online
