Home Featured News Ghana Police deny allegations of assault against activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor

Ghana Police deny allegations of assault against activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor

Addressing rumors circulating on social media that Barker-Vormawor had been physically assaulted, the police statement denied such allegations, asserting that no mistreatment occurred during his time in custody.

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The Ghana Police Service has refuted claims that its officers assaulted prominent lawyer and activist, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, while he was in custody.

In a statement issued on Sunday, October 20, the police clarified that Barker-Vormawor sustained only minor injuries during a transfer to a different cell.

According to the police, the decision to move Barker-Vormawor was based on intelligence suggesting that he intended to compromise the safety of other inmates. To prevent any potential incident, the transfer was deemed necessary.

The police explained that the situation arose after Barker-Vormawor failed to meet the bail conditions set by the High Court on October 16, which resulted in his continued detention. The transfer was described as a standard security measure.

Addressing rumors circulating on social media that Barker-Vormawor had been physically assaulted, the police statement denied such allegations, asserting that no mistreatment occurred during his time in custody. The police urged the public to disregard these claims and to rely on accurate information about the incident.

The statement read, “On 19th October 2024, the Police had intelligence that the accused was planning to compromise the security of other inmates and the Police Station. The Police, therefore, decided to transfer him to another cell, but he resisted, after several persuasion.”

The statement continued, “In the attempt to handcuff him, he sustained minor scratches on his right hand. He was then taken to the Hospital, where he was treated and discharged.”

Oliver Barker-Vormawor, one of the 53 Democracy Hub protesters detained following their participation in an anti-illegal mining demonstration, remained in custody after his arrest. He was the last to be released on bail after three failed attempts.

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