The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has firmly rejected reports suggesting it had earlier interactions with alleged cybercrime suspect Frederick Kumi, popularly known as Abu Trica, describing the claims as inaccurate and misleading.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 16, EOCO clarified that at no point did the Office communicate or engage with Abu Trica—also known as Emmanuel Kojo Baah Obeng—before his arrest.

The clarification comes in response to media speculation that the anti-graft agency had been in contact with the suspect several weeks prior to his apprehension.

Abu Trica was arrested in a joint operation involving EOCO and other security agencies over his alleged involvement in an $8 million romance scam targeting victims abroad.

“The Office did not, on any occasion, contact ‘Abu Trica’ before the arrest, contrary to the speculation circulating in the media,” EOCO stated.

EOCO reiterated its mandate to combat economic and organised crime and assured the public of its commitment to due process and professionalism in all investigations.

The Office also called on the public to support its work by volunteering credible information on suspected criminal activities to aid ongoing efforts to curb financial and cyber-related crimes.

The statement was signed by the Head of Public Affairs on behalf of the Executive Director of EOCO