Sir Obama Pokuase’s release delayed over administrative procedures – Lawyer

Enoch Afoakwa, legal counsel for Daniel Adomako, popularly known as Sir Obama Pokuase, has attributed his client’s continued detention despite being granted bail to administrative processes within the Ghana Police Service.

Sir Obama Pokuase was arrested over allegations of circulating images depicting individuals wielding illegally acquired firearms. The Ghana Police Service has said his arrest was part of a joint intelligence-led operation with other security agencies targeting illegal arms possession.

Speaking on Channel One’s Newsroom and closely monitored by Today.com.gh, Mr. Afoakwa explained that the verification of sureties was still ongoing, contributing to the delay in his client’s release.

He noted that some of the delay arose because key Criminal Investigation Department (CID) officials were attending the state funeral for the eight officials who died in the August 6 helicopter crash.

“There is a need for formal communication between the police authorities and the institutions that the sureties are affiliated with. Certainly, that requires some time to obtain the necessary responses. I was informed this afternoon that a letter has been drafted, and I have seen its draft,” he said.

Mr. Afoakwa added that the police were awaiting an officer to formally execute the letter so it could be dispatched, assuring that work on the matter would resume promptly. “We hope and pray that all processes are completed tomorrow so he can be released. Most of the CID officers were at the Black Star Square for the national morning of the eight heroes who perished in the helicopter crash,” he stated.

Sir Obama Pokuase was granted bail of GH¢50,000 with three sureties, two of whom must be salaried employees, while one surety must be a government worker earning at least GH¢3,000. He was arrested on Wednesday, August 13, during intelligence-led operations targeting illegal possession and display of sophisticated firearms.

In an earlier statement, the Ghana Police Service confirmed that Sir Obama Pokuase was assisting with investigations into videos and images circulating on social media showing individuals brandishing high-grade firearms. The police added that the probe forms part of a broader operation aimed at dismantling illegal arms networks in the country.