The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC has confirmed that former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been taken into custody by the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In a press release dated December 10, 2026, signed by Ghana’s Ambassador to the US, Victor Emmanuel Smith, the embassy said it received information about Ofori-Atta’s detention and verified the circumstances surrounding the matter.
Following confirmation, the embassy formally contacted the detention facility to request consular access in line with international diplomatic protocols. However, Ofori-Atta declined to meet with consular officials at that time without his lawyers present.
“The Embassy of Ghana remains in contact with the appropriate United States authorities and will continue to follow the matter closely to ensure that Mr. Ofori-Atta’s rights are fully respected,” the statement said.
The embassy did not provide details on the reasons for his detention or indicate how long he is expected to remain in ICE custody.
