My domestic staff are traumatised after raid – Ofori-Atta

Former Finance Minister, Ken Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, has described last month’s raid on his residence as a distressing incident that left his domestic staff traumatized and suffering severe shock.

He made this claim in a lawsuit filed at the High Court of Justice in Accra against DSP Bismark Boakye Ansah and Chief Inspector Mensah, also known as Sir Mensah, for trespassing and violating his right to privacy.

On February 11, 2025, a group of individuals, including the two defendants and 12 others, allegedly entered Ofori-Atta’s residence without prior notice or consent and conducted an extensive search.

Ofori-Atta, who is currently receiving medical treatment abroad, stated that his property at 25 Aborlebu Crescent in Labone, Accra, was under the care of his domestic staff at the time of the incident.

In the lawsuit, he detailed that the raiding team consisted of nine armed military personnel and several plain-clothed individuals, some carrying sidearms. The team reportedly failed to present a warrant or any justification for the search. His domestic staff were also ordered not to use their mobile phones throughout the operation.

According to Ofori-Atta, the search covered all areas of the house, including bedrooms, living spaces, and the kitchen. A member of the raiding team filmed the entire operation using a mobile phone, while his domestic staff, overwhelmed with fear, remained helpless.

He further stated that the incident has caused lasting trauma for his domestic staff, who continue to suffer from severe shock.

Ofori-Atta claims that the actions of the defendants and their team were unlawful, violating his privacy and property rights. He also argues that the raid, which attracted national and international attention, subjected him to public ridicule, tarnishing his reputation.

Despite reaching out to the National Intelligence Bureau, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Inspector General of Police for clarification on the raid’s legitimacy, he has received no response.

As part of the lawsuit, Ofori-Atta is seeking damages for the distress and loss incurred, as well as a court order restraining the defendants from further interference with his property and privacy rights. He is also demanding compensation for what he describes as their unlawful actions.