The Ghana Police Service has debunked a series of claims circulating in the media and public discourse surrounding the recent arrests of 54 individuals during a demonstration organized by the Democracy Hub.
In a statement release on Thursday the police categorically denied allegations that a 12-year-old child, a 68-year-old woman, and a pregnant woman were among those detained.
The demonstration, held on September 21 and 22, 2024, was marked by significant unrest. Protesters had gathered at the 37 Intersection in Accra, despite a court order barring them from their preferred venue at Revolutionary Square near Jubilee House.
According to the police, the demonstrators caused major disruptions, blocking traffic with vehicles and debris, setting fires, and even harassing road users, including military and police officers.
The police responded to the situation without using force, despite multiple provocations from demonstrators, including attempts to seize police equipment.
While the organizers of the protest had previously been advised to relocate to one of seven alternative venues, they refused, resulting in their arrests on the second day.
Among the reports that followed the arrests was a claim that a 12-year-old child had been detained.
However, the police clarified that the child was merely accompanying a 50-year-old woman, Grace Asantewaa, who had been arrested.
To avoid separating the child from her guardian, the police allowed her to remain at the station, provided her with food, and later granted bail to Asantewaa.
Furthermore, allegations regarding the arrest of a 68-year-old woman and a pregnant woman were also discredited. The police confirmed that the woman reported to be 68 years old was, in fact, 50-year-old Grace Asantewaa.
The supposed pregnancy of another arrestee, Gloria Vera Louise, was proven false after a medical examination at two separate facilities confirmed she was not pregnant.
In a bid to maintain transparency, the police announced that its Professional Standards Bureau would investigate the circumstances surrounding two individuals being held in custody for over 48 hours without being sent to court.
The police emphasized their commitment to upholding citizens’ rights to peaceful protests, urging demonstrators to follow lawful procedures in future demonstrations.
The arrested individuals are currently being prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney-General.
