In a significant legal development, former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been taken into custody by United States immigration authorities.
His legal team confirmed the detention on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, clarifying that the 66-year-old is being held due to complications regarding his current immigration status.
Detention Details in Virginia
According to official records from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Ofori-Atta is currently being held at the Caroline Detention Facility in Bowling Green, Virginia.
His lawyers stated that the detention, which occurred on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, is strictly an administrative matter.
Reports indicate that Ofori-Atta had filed a petition to adjust his status to extend his stay in the United States legally for continued medical care.
His legal representatives emphasized that he is cooperating fully with authorities. Furthermore, they expressed confidence that this visa-related matter will be resolved promptly.
Fugitive Status and 78 Corruption Charges
Ofori-Atta’s detention occurs against the backdrop of an intense legal battle in Ghana. Since leaving the country in January 2025 for medical treatment—specifically prostate cancer surgery, he has been the target of multiple high-profile investigations:
- 78 Counts of Corruption: In November 2025, Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) formally charged Ofori-Atta with 78 criminal counts. These charges include causing financial loss to the state and misconduct related to the controversial.
- SML revenue assurance contract.Fugitive Declaration: He was officially declared a fugitive by the OSP in February 2025 after failing to return to Ghana for questioning.
- Extradition Request: On December 10, 2025, the Ghanaian government transmitted a formal extradition request to the U.S. Department of Justice, seeking his return to face trial in Accra.
Legacy and Economic Tenure (2017–2024)
Ken Ofori-Atta served as the Minister for Finance and Economic Planning for seven years under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
His tenure was marked by both significant achievements and major economic hurdles:
- IMF $3 Billion Bailout: He led negotiations for a critical credit facility to stabilize Ghana’s economy following global shocks.
- Debt Restructuring: He oversaw the country’s domestic and external debt exchange programs, which were met with mixed public reaction.
- Inflation Crisis: His term faced severe criticism during a period of record-high inflation, eventually leading to his replacement in a February 2024 cabinet reshuffle.
As the U.S. judicial system reviews his immigration status, the Ghanaian government continues its international efforts to secure his repatriation.
The outcome of his detention in Virginia could significantly impact the timeline for his potential return to face trial in Accra.
