Interior Minister Orders Probe into Assault of Suspect in Police Custody
Police ordered to identify civilians involved in the assault and investigate officers who may have facilitated or allowed the breach of custody.
- Interior Minister orders police probe
- Civilians involved to be arrested
- Culpable officers face disciplinary action
The Minister for the Interior has directed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to investigate the assault of an arrested person while in police custody.
The Ministry of the Interior described the incident as a matter of serious concern and condemned the assault, stressing that no allegation of a criminal offence gives anyone the right to attack a suspect in state custody.
The Ministry said the incident followed statements attributed to individuals on both sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against people accused of offending religious sensibilities.
It condemned all such statements, emphasising that there is no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims or anyone else on religious grounds.
According to the Ministry, an arrested person is in the custody of the State and is entitled to the full protection of the law.
The Interior Minister has therefore directed the IGP to establish how civilians were able to gain access to the suspect while in police custody.
The Police have also been instructed to identify any officers who may have facilitated, permitted or acquiesced in the breach of custody and take appropriate disciplinary action against those found culpable.
In addition, the Police have been directed to identify, arrest and investigate the civilians allegedly involved in the assault.
Supervising officers responsible for the custody and supervision of the persons involved are also to be investigated, with disciplinary measures taken against any officer found to have breached their responsibilities.
The Minister further directed the Police to handle persons arrested in connection with the preceding incidents strictly in accordance with the law and without fear or favour.
The Ministry reiterated that religious incitement, religious violence and the unlawful assault of persons in custody have no place in Ghana.
It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting peaceful coexistence among citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.
