The coastal town of Keta in Ghana’s Volta Region is grappling with the unresolved death of Jerry Kpesenu, affectionately known as “Maya,” a 45-year-old landlord who died in police custody in June 2024. The youth of Keta are demanding justice and accountability, calling on their leaders to petition the newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tete Yohunu, to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Maya’s demise. They accuse the Keta police of brutality, alleging that Maya was beaten and molested while in their custody, leading to his death. This incident has fueled public outrage and sparked accusations of police misconduct, echoing similar unresolved cases in the region.
The youth are deeply frustrated by the perceived inaction of the former IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, whom they criticize for failing to conduct a comprehensive investigation into Maya’s death. They express skepticism about the impartiality of the previous investigation and believe that a fresh inquiry under the new IGP is imperative to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served. Their call for justice underscores a growing concern about police brutality and the need for greater accountability within the Ghana Police Service. They see the new IGP’s involvement as a crucial step towards restoring trust and addressing the systemic issues that may have contributed to Maya’s death.
The circumstances leading to Maya’s arrest appear to stem from a seemingly minor dispute with a tenant. According to reports, a tenant had arranged for an electrician to install an air conditioning unit without informing Maya, leading to a disagreement. The tenant subsequently filed a complaint against Maya, which resulted in his arrest by the Keta police. The events that transpired between his arrest and his death remain shrouded in controversy, fueling the youth’s demand for transparency and a comprehensive investigation. The perceived disproportionate response from the police raises concerns about their professional conduct and the use of excessive force.
The youth’s plea for justice is multifaceted. They are not only demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Maya’s death but also calling for the release of the autopsy report, which they hope will shed light on the cause of death. Further, they advocate for the interdiction of the officers allegedly involved in Maya’s arrest and subsequent death, pending the outcome of the investigation. This demand reflects the community’s desire for accountability and a commitment to ensuring that those responsible for Maya’s death face the full force of the law. They see this as a necessary step to prevent future incidents of police brutality and restore public trust in the police force.
The death of Maya has galvanized the Keta community, sparking protests and demonstrations demanding justice. Concerned youth have organized press conferences and taken to the streets to voice their outrage and demand answers. They are determined to keep the pressure on the authorities until justice is served and those responsible for Maya’s death are held accountable. This activism signifies a growing awareness of citizen rights and a determination to challenge perceived injustices perpetrated by law enforcement. The community’s collective action emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in holding authorities accountable and advocating for police reform.
This tragic incident is not an isolated case. The Volta Region, including areas like Ho, Akatsi, and Hohoe, has witnessed a concerning pattern of deaths in police custody under questionable circumstances. These unresolved cases further fuel public distrust in the police and underscore the urgent need for systematic reforms within the Ghana Police Service. The lack of closure in these cases exacerbates the community’s grief and reinforces the perception of impunity within the police force. The youth’s call for justice in Maya’s case represents a broader demand for accountability and transparency within law enforcement, and a call for an end to the culture of impunity that allows such incidents to occur. They hope that by seeking justice for Maya, they can contribute to a larger movement for police reform and prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.
