The Ministry of the Interior has strongly condemned the assault of an arrested person while in police custody, describing the incident as unacceptable and ordering an immediate investigation into how civilians gained access to the suspect.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 13, 2026, the Ministry said it had taken note of the incident and expressed concern that it followed statements attributed to individuals on opposing sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against people perceived to have offended religious sensibilities.
The Ministry stressed that there is no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims or adherents of any other faith, adding that every individual is entitled to equal protection under the law regardless of the allegations against them.
It emphasised that no accusation, however serious, gives anyone the right to assault a suspect in police custody, noting that once a person is arrested, they are under the protection of the State.
The Ministry also described as a matter of serious concern the circumstances under which civilians were able to gain access to the detainee while in police custody.
To address the incident, the Minister for the Interior has directed the Inspector-General of Police to investigate how the breach occurred and identify any police personnel who may have facilitated, permitted, or acquiesced in the unlawful access. Officers found culpable are to face appropriate disciplinary action.
The Inspector-General has also been instructed to identify, arrest and investigate all civilians involved in the assault in accordance with the law.
In addition, supervising officers responsible for the custody and oversight of the detainee are to be investigated, with disciplinary measures to be taken against any officer found to have neglected their duties.
The Ministry further directed the Ghana Police Service to ensure that all persons arrested in connection with the preceding incidents are dealt with strictly in accordance with the law, without fear or favour.
Reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the Ministry stated that religious incitement, religious violence and assaults on persons in custody have no place in Ghana. It added that no religious belief, personal grievance or other consideration places anyone above the law.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting peaceful coexistence among citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.
