Interior Ministry Condemns Assault of Suspect in Police Custody, Orders IGP Probe

The Ministry of the Interior has condemned the assault of an arrested person while in police custody and has directed the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the incident.

In a statement issued on August 13, 2026, the Ministry said it took note of the incident, which it noted followed statements attributed to persons on both sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against persons considered to have offended religious sensibilities.

The Ministry unequivocally condemned all such statements, stating that “there is no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims, or any other person on the basis of religion.”

It also stressed that no allegation of breach of law, however serious, gives any person the right to assault a suspect in police custody.

“An arrested person is in custody of the State and is entitled to the protection of the law,” the statement said.

The Ministry further expressed serious concern over the circumstances under which civilians gained access to the person in custody.

Accordingly, the Minister for the Interior has directed the IGP to investigate the circumstances under which civilians gained access to the arrested person and identify any police personnel who may have facilitated, permitted or acquiesced in the breach of custody, and take appropriate disciplinary action.

It also demanded immediate steps to identify, arrest and investigate the civilian persons involved in the assault, in accordance with the law and investigate the conduct of all supervising officers directly responsible for the custody and supervision of the persons involved and, where found culpable, take disciplinary action.

The Minister further directed the police to deal with 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,” adding that no religious belief, personal grievance or other consideration places anyone above the law.

It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting the peaceful coexistence of citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.

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