Deputy Interior Minister Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi has justified the heavily armed security operation conducted at the home of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, likening the approach to how one would pursue a wild dog.
In the early hours of Friday, a joint team of National Investigations Bureau (NIB) agents and police officers, armed with a search warrant, carried out a raid on Wontumi’s residence. While details of the warrant have not been publicly disclosed, Mr. Terlabi explained that the operation was based on intelligence.
The raid led to a tense standoff as supporters of the NPP gathered to prevent any arrest attempts, sparking concerns about the use of excessive force.
Opposition figures have compared this incident to recent raids on former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Ernest Addison, describing the actions as part of a pattern of intimidation against opposition members.
Deputy Minister Terlabi, however, dismissed these criticisms, stating, “You don’t go to catch a wild dog without being properly armed.”
He assured that security protocols were strictly followed and that the officers were prepared for any possible resistance.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show hours after the operation, Terlabi said, “The security services are well-trained and know their responsibilities. No one in this country is above the law.”
Addressing concerns about the ‘Rambo-style’ nature of the raid, he explained, “If security personnel go unprepared, then they would face criticism. But considering some of the statements made by Wontumi — including challenges directed at security officers and the sitting President — it was necessary for the officers to be fully prepared. That does not mean they intended to harm him.”
He further noted, “If Wontumi is a subject of investigation and they need him, no one can stop them from bringing him in for questioning.”
Regarding the operation, Terlabi said he was yet to receive all details but reaffirmed that it was intelligence-led. “They did not go there to harm him but to invite him. If the decision was made to bring him in on Monday, then so be it.”
He warned against attempts to hinder security officers carrying out their lawful duties, urging critics to seek justice through the courts instead.
“Those calling on party supporters to assemble in large numbers where security officers are working legally should desist,” he cautioned.
“Let the security agencies do their jobs. If anyone believes something wrong has happened, the proper place to address it is in court. Not long ago, the opposition was encouraging us to take matters to court — they should continue to do so if they feel the security services have erred.”
He reiterated that the courts remain the appropriate forum for any grievances and stressed that such actions should not interfere with security operations.