The Minister of the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak-Muntaka, has condemned the assault of an arrested person while in police custody and directed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to investigate how civilians gained access to the suspect.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 13, 2026, the Ministry said it was particularly concerned about the incident because it followed statements attributed to individuals on opposing sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against persons accused of offending religious sentiments.
The Ministry condemned such statements, stressing that there was no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims or anyone else on the basis of religion.
It also strongly condemned the assault on the suspect, emphasising that no allegation of a criminal or other legal violation gives anyone the right to attack a person in police custody.
According to the Ministry, an arrested person is in the custody of the State and is entitled to the protection of the law.
It described the circumstances under which civilians gained access to the suspect as a matter of serious concern.
The Interior Minister has directed the IGP to investigate the circumstances that led to civilians gaining access to the arrested person and identify any police personnel who may have facilitated, permitted or acquiesced in the breach of custody.
The Ministry said appropriate disciplinary action should be taken against any police officer found culpable.
The IGP has also been directed to identify, arrest and investigate the civilians who allegedly participated in the assault in accordance with the law.
Additionally, the police have been instructed to investigate the conduct of all supervising officers directly responsible for the custody and supervision of the persons involved and take appropriate disciplinary action where culpability is established.
The Minister further directed the police to handle all persons arrested in connection with the preceding incidents strictly in accordance with the law and without fear or favour.
The Ministry reiterated that 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 other consideration places anyone above the law.
The Ministry said it remains committed to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in State custody and promoting peaceful coexistence among citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.
