Interior Ministry Condemns Assault in Police Custody, Orders Probe Into Custody Breach

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

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Ministry said it had taken note of the incident and expressed particular concern that it occurred following statements attributed to persons on both sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against individuals considered to have offended religious sensitivities.

The Ministry unequivocally condemned such statements, stressing that there is no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims or any other person based on religion.

It also made clear that no allegation of a breach of the law, regardless of how serious it may be, gives anyone the right to assault a suspect who is in police custody.

According to the Ministry, every arrested person is under the protection of the State and is entitled to the protection of the law.

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

Consequently, the Minister for the Interior has directed the IGP to investigate how the civilians gained access to the arrested person and identify any police personnel who may have facilitated, permitted or acquiesced in the breach of custody.

The IGP has also been instructed to take appropriate disciplinary action against any police officer found culpable.

In addition, the police have been directed to identify, arrest and investigate the civilians involved in the assault in accordance with the law.

The Minister has further ordered an investigation into the conduct of all supervising officers who were directly responsible for the custody and supervision of the persons involved. Where any supervising officer is found culpable, appropriate disciplinary action is to be taken in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures.

The Ministry has also directed the police to deal with all persons arrested in connection with the incidents strictly in accordance with the law and without fear or favour.

The Ministry reiterated that its position is clear: religious incitement, religious violence and the unlawful assault of persons in custody have no place in Ghana.

It stressed that no religious belief, personal grievance or any other consideration places anyone above the law.

The Ministry said it remains committed to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting the peaceful coexistence of citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.

The statement was issued by the Public Affairs and Communications Unit of the Ministry of the Interior. The Ministry’s official release was dated August 13, 2026.