Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin is claiming that the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, led by Foreign Affairs Minister-nominee Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has been using drones to surveil his private properties in what he calls a highly invasive and politically motivated operation.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday, February 2, 2025, the Effutu legislator revealed that he had been alerted multiple times by his associates about unidentified drones flying over his homes and lands but chose to remain silent—until now.
“I Have Nothing to Hide”
Afenyo-Markin insists that all his assets were acquired legally and that the drone surveillance is an attempt to create false narratives about his properties.
“I was aware that these ORAL guys have been flying drones in Winneba over my property. I kept quiet. I managed it. They went to my beachfront property, mounted a drone, and flew it from the community center near the ‘nshorna.’ My boy saw it. I told them to ignore it,” he stated.
He further alleged that the drone activities were not limited to Winneba but also targeted his residence in Abelemkpe and other properties.
“In Abelemkpe, you’ll be there in the morning, and you’ll see drones flying. The policemen have seen it. They told me, but I said ignore it. Sometimes, early in the morning, we see drones behind the rail line, and I know they are spying on my house. What business do drones have at the Majority Leader’s residence?” he questioned.
Political Witch Hunt or Legitimate Investigation?
Afenyo-Markin’s comments come just days after Ablakwa revealed details about his properties during his vetting session on Friday, January 31. The Majority Leader hinted that he had previously privately confronted Ablakwa about the issue.
“Before his vetting, ask Ablakwa whether we didn’t sit as brothers. I said, ‘Sammy, there were things that you went overboard. I think if you make concessions, we’ll be fine,’” he recounted.
Despite their conversation, he claims that Ablakwa’s ORAL team continued its surveillance operations against him.
Land Ownership Controversy
Afenyo-Markin also rejected claims that some of his lands in Winneba were state-owned, calling such assertions “a complete misrepresentation.”
“The gentleman brought a search report and created the impression that my lands in Winneba are state lands. With the greatest respect, they are not,” he insisted.
