OSP defends arrest as lawful after Kpebu brands office a “vigilante group”

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has intensified his criticism of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), accusing the anti-corruption institution of adopting what he calls a “vigilante mentality” in its interactions with individuals under investigation.

His remarks follow his arrest and subsequent release on Wednesday, an incident he says confirms his concerns about the office’s methods.

In a media interview following the incident, Mr Kpebu stated that his experience at the OSP headquarters reflects a worrying trend of intimidation targeted at suspects and individuals who question the office’s approach. He said the manner in which he was handled was unnecessary, excessive, and deliberate.

“What I saw clearly shows that the OSP is now working with a vigilante mentality. The aim is to frighten people who appear before them,” he said.

The lawyer maintained that he fully complied with all procedures when he arrived to assist with ongoing investigations, insisting that there was no legal basis for his arrest.

“They had absolutely no basis to arrest me. It was pure overreach. They just want to show power and create fear,” he argued.

Mr Kpebu further alleged that under the leadership of Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng, the office has drifted from its professional principles and is now operating in a manner that undermines due process.

“This kind of conduct destroys public confidence. An institution meant to fight corruption cannot behave like a vigilante group,” he said.

His renewed criticism follows earlier comments in which he described the arrest as a “suicide mission” for the OSP, warning that such actions erode the institution’s credibility.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor has defended its actions, asserting that Mr Kpebu’s arrest was lawful and based on his alleged obstruction of security officers during the execution of their duties.