Democracy Hub, the organization behind the three-day protest against the government’s alleged mismanagement of the economy and complicity in the destruction caused by illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has reported that over 40 arrested protesters have been relocated to the Police Headquarters in Osu.
The protest convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, along with more than 40 others, was arrested for their alleged involvement in acts of lawlessness during the demonstration. The arrests occurred after clashes between protesters and police at the 37 Intersection in Accra, where demonstrators attempted to block roads and dismantle police barriers.
Police used what they described as “all lawful means” to restrain protesters and remove a vehicle causing a blockade. However, concerns have been raised about the treatment and welfare of the detainees.
In response to these concerns, a search was conducted across various police stations in the Greater Accra region to ascertain the total number of individuals in custody. This came after reports emerged that some protesters were being held and mistreated in different locations.
Prince Ganaku, a member of Democracy Hub’s legal team, revealed in an interview on Eyewitness News on Citi FM that legal representatives were instructed to search the streets of Accra for those detained.
According to Ganaku, police refused to provide a complete list of those arrested, forcing the team to take matters into their own hands.
Ganaku alleged that detainees were being held in various cells, denied access to legal counsel, and were scheduled to appear in court.
He also claimed that an order from higher authorities prevented arrested protesters from receiving legal representation.
The arrests and reported mistreatment of protesters have sparked widespread concern among human rights activists and supporters of the protest.
Many have taken to social media to express solidarity with the detained protesters and demand their release.
As the situation unfolds, tensions between protesters and law enforcement remain high. The protest organizers have vowed to continue their demands for accountability and action against galamsey, while police maintain their commitment to maintaining law and order.
The developments have also raised questions about the government’s handling of protests and the balance between freedom of assembly and maintaining public order.
As Ghana prepares for upcoming elections, the outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications for the country’s democratic landscape.
