IGP ordered to probe civilian assault of suspect in custody – Interior Ministry Spokesperson

The Ministry of the Interior has called for a probe into the assault of a suspect while in police custody, expressing serious concern over the incident. The Ministry stated that the event occurred in the wake of religious disputes, with individuals involved making calls for violence against those whose religious sensibilities were allegedly offended.

The Ministry strongly condemned such statements, emphasizing that no justification exists for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims, or any individual based on religion. The Ministry reiterated that the unlawful assault on an arrested person, who is under the State's protection, is unacceptable. Concern was raised about civilians gaining access to the arrested individual, leading the Minister for the Interior to order the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the situation.

The Inspector-General is also tasked with identifying any police personnel who may have facilitated, allowed, or condoned the breach of custody, with appropriate disciplinary action to be taken against those found guilty. The Police have been directed to identify, arrest, and investigate the civilians involved in the assault, with supervising officers directly responsible for the custody of the suspects to be investigated as well.

Officers found culpable will face disciplinary action. Furthermore, the Police have been instructed to handle individuals arrested in connection with the incidents according to the law without bias. The Ministry reiterated its stance that religious incitement, religious violence, and the unlawful assault of individuals in custody are incompatible with Ghanaian values.