'It's frightening when people show up at your home with guns' - Dr Zaato

Political analyst, Dr Joshua Jebuntie Zaato has raised concerns over the frequent use of armed personnel during state-sanctioned raids or property retrieval operations, especially when they involve civilians.

Speaking on TV3 NewDay and monitored by GhanaWeb on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, he noted the psychological impact on individuals when such operations are carried out with visible firearms.

"When people are at home and individuals show up with guns, it’s frightening. It’s scary. Anything can happen when a gun is involved," he said.

He added that while he understands such operations are often deemed standard procedure, they can be unsettling for the public.

Dr Zaato wondered if there could be a better approach.

“Can’t the armed personnel stand outside while the unarmed officials go inside to speak or retrieve items? That way, we avoid scaring people unnecessarily,” he suggested.

He stressed that while state institutions may see this show of force as necessary to assert their authority, it is crucial to remember the human element involved.

His comments follow an allegation made by popular Ghanaian dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale, who claimed that officials from the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), led by their Executive Director, Raymond Archer, stormed his residence with firearms.

Meanwhile, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has confirmed the seizure of a luxury Lamborghini Urus SUV from popular Ghanaian musician, Shatta Wale.

The vehicle is reportedly linked to convicted Ghanaian-American fraudster Nana Kwabena Amuah, also known as Philip Osei Tutu.

JKB/VPO

Meanwhile, watch the trailer to GhanaWeb’s yet-to-air documentary on teenage girls and how fish is stealing their futures below: