The Ghana Police Service has launched a comprehensive investigation into the violent disruption that occurred during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun election on July 11, 2025, at the St. Peter’s Methodist Church polling station. This incident, involving an alleged attack on former Fisheries Minister Hawa Koomson and others by unidentified individuals, temporarily halted voting proceedings before order was restored by law enforcement. The police have assured the public that arrests are imminent, based on significant progress made in the investigation. This progress includes the thorough review of video footage, the collection of witness testimonies, and the identification of key leads.
The investigation, overseen by the Accra Regional Police Command, is meticulously analyzing video evidence to pinpoint and identify all individuals involved in the violent acts. Investigators have obtained statements from victims and witnesses to build a comprehensive understanding of the events. These statements, combined with the video analysis, are providing crucial leads that the police believe will soon lead to arrests. The police have also provided medical report forms to the victims to document their injuries and facilitate necessary medical treatment. This commitment to thorough documentation underscores the seriousness with which the police are treating the incident.
The police have publicly appealed for cooperation from the public, urging anyone with credible information to come forward and assist in the investigation. This collaborative approach between law enforcement and the community is crucial for ensuring a fair and just outcome. By engaging the public, the police aim to gather a complete picture of the incident and ensure that all those responsible are held accountable. This transparency and commitment to public engagement signify a proactive approach to maintaining peace and order during electoral processes.
In addition to the investigation into the broader violence, the police have taken decisive action against an officer captured on video assaulting a journalist during the election rerun. This officer has been interdicted, a form of suspension from duty, and is facing criminal charges for the assault. This swift action reflects the police service’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct within its ranks and its commitment to ensuring the safety and protection of all individuals, including members of the press, during electoral processes.
The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that anyone found culpable of violence, intimidation, or any form of misconduct during the electoral process will face the full force of the law. This includes not only those directly involved in the violence but also any individuals found to have instigated or facilitated the unrest. The police are determined to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those who engage in it will be held accountable. This commitment to accountability is crucial for preserving the integrity of Ghana’s electoral system.
The police have provided emergency contact numbers, 18555 and 191, urging the public to utilize these channels to report any relevant information related to the incident. This proactive approach to information gathering emphasizes the importance of public participation in ensuring a just and thorough investigation. By providing these accessible channels, the police are making it easier for individuals with valuable information to contribute to the process, thereby strengthening the investigation and fostering greater trust between law enforcement and the community. The police’s commitment to transparency and accountability serves to reinforce public confidence in the integrity of the electoral process and the rule of law in Ghana.
