The Ministry of the Interior has condemned the assault of an arrested person while in police custody.
The Ministry said it was particularly concerned that the incident followed statements attributed to persons on both sides of a religious dispute, including calls for violence against persons considered to have offended religious sensibilities.
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It condemned all such statements, stressing that there is no justification for inciting violence against Christians, Muslims or any other person based on religion.
The Ministry also stated that no allegation of breach of law, however serious, gives anyone the right to assault a suspect in police custody, adding that an arrested person is in the custody of the State and is entitled to the protection of the law.
It said the circumstances under which civilians gained access to the person in custody were a matter of serious concern.
The Minister for the Interior has therefore directed the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the circumstances under which 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 Minister further directed that appropriate disciplinary action be taken against any officer found culpable.
The Police have also been directed to immediately identify, arrest and investigate the civilian persons involved in the assault in accordance with the law.
The Minister directed the Police to investigate the conduct of all supervising officers directly responsible for the custody and supervision of the persons involved and take appropriate disciplinary action against any officer found culpable.
The Police have also been directed to deal with persons arrested in connection with the preceding incidents strictly in accordance with the law and without fear or favour.
The Ministry said religious incitement, religious violence and the unlawful assault of persons in custody have no place in Ghana, adding that no religious belief, personal grievance or other consideration places anyone above the law.
It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public order, protecting the rights of persons in custody and promoting the peaceful coexistence of citizens of all faiths and backgrounds.
