The Ghana Police Service has refuted allegations circulating in the media and on social platforms concerning the treatment of protestors during the recent Democracy Hub anti-galamsey demonstrations. The protests, which took a confrontational turn, resulted in the arrest of 54 individuals, with claims of police high-handedness dominating public discourse.
Among those who voiced concerns over the police’s handling of the protestors is the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, who has criticized the police for allegedly employing excessive force. In response, the Police Service has defended its actions as lawful, explaining that all arrested individuals were arraigned in court in accordance with due process.
A prominent rumor that gained traction on social media was the arrest and detention of a pregnant woman among the protestors. However, a police statement issued last night has clarified that medical tests conducted at both the Police Hospital and a private facility revealed that the woman, identified as Gloria Vera Louise, was not pregnant.
The police also addressed reports that a 68-year-old woman had been arrested during the protest, allegedly while in the company of a 10-year-old child. According to the official statement, the woman in question is actually 50-year-old Grace Asantewaa, who had attended the protest with a 12-year-old child. Following her arrest, the police ensured the child remained with her at the station to avoid separating them. The Police Service further provided food for the minor and subsequently charged Asantewaa with exposing the child to danger. She was granted police inquiry bail due to the child’s involvement and later released.
The Ghana Police Service has emphasized its commitment to upholding democratic freedoms and reassured the public that its actions are aligned with the law. The police expressed concern over the propagation of falsehoods and urged the public to verify information before accepting it as fact.
Despite the tension surrounding the protests and their aftermath, the Police Service reiterated that it remains dedicated to safeguarding the rights of all citizens while ensuring the rule of law prevails.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com