The Ministry of the Interior has condemned the assault of an arrested person while in police custody and directed the Ghana Police Service to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In a statement, the Ministry expressed concern that the assault occurred amid a religious dispute that had reportedly generated statements and calls for violence against individuals accused of offending religious sentiments.
The Ministry strongly condemned any form of religious incitement, hate speech and violence, stressing that there is no justification for attacking Christians, Muslims or any other person because of their religious beliefs.
Interior Ministry Warns Against Assault in Police Custody
The Ministry also emphasised that even where a person is suspected of committing a serious offence, such allegations do not give anyone the right to assault a suspect who is in police custody.
According to the Ministry, an arrested person remains under the protection of the State and is entitled to due process, legal protection and humane treatment.
It therefore described the circumstances under which civilians allegedly gained access to the suspect as a serious security and policing concern.
IGP Directed to Investigate Police Officers
The Minister for the Interior has directed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to investigate how civilians gained access to the arrested person.
The police have also been instructed to:
- Investigate whether any police officers facilitated, permitted or ignored the breach of custody and take disciplinary action against officers found culpable.
- Identify, arrest and investigate civilians suspected of participating in the assault in accordance with Ghanaian law.
- Investigate the conduct of supervising police officers responsible for the custody and protection of the persons involved.
- Take appropriate disciplinary measures against any supervising officers found to have breached applicable police procedures.
The Ministry further directed the Ghana Police Service to handle all persons arrested in connection with the incidents strictly according to the law, without fear or favour.
No One Is Above the Law
The Interior Ministry reiterated that religious violence, incitement and unlawful attacks on persons in police custody have no place in Ghana.
It stressed that religious beliefs, personal grievances or other considerations cannot place anyone above the law.
The Ministry said it remains committed to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of suspects in custody, upholding the rule of law and promoting peaceful coexistence among Christians, Muslims and people of all faiths and backgrounds in Ghana.
The directive is expected to reinforce calls for police accountability, protection of suspects’ rights and stronger measures against religiously motivated violence and unlawful assaults.
Source: newsthemegh.com