Bystanders and minors detained in mass arrests over anti-mining protest in Ghana – Families seek answers: Video
Dozens of peaceful demonstrators in Ghana were arrested and held for more than 48 hours following protests against environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, also known as "galamsey."
The three-day protest, organised by Democracy Hub, a civil society advocacy group, took place over the weekend to condemn the government's failure to address the environmental devastation caused by pervasive mining.
The protests were largely led by young activists who gathered near the country's presidential seat to draw attention to the impact of illegal mining and deforestation. The demonstrators called for stronger enforcement of environmental laws and corporate accountability for the destruction of forests and water bodies.
Despite following legal procedures to organise the peaceful march, protestors were arrested for what authorities deemed "unlawful assembly." According to Democracy Hub members, protest notices had been sent to the police three months prior, but no response was received until the night before the scheduled protest.
Arrests and detentions
At least 40 protestors were arrested near the 37 Military Hospital in Accra from Saturday, September 21 to Monday, September 23. Police accused some of attacking officers and blocking a major highway, though video footage shows officers apprehending individuals who were not actively participating in the protest. Among those arrested was legal practitioner Ama Governor, who was seen standing away from the main protest when she was taken into custody.
Many protestors reported being denied access to media or legal counsel, with some alleging physical abuse during their arrest and detention. Ama Governor complained of being hit on the neck by police officers and stated, “They detained us for over 48 hours without food or water,” she exclaimed while being dragged to court.
Arrest of bystanders, minors and pregnant woman
In addition to protestors, bystanders were arrested, including a 10-year-old girl who was in the company of her 62-year-old grandmother. They were both bundled into a police bus with adult detainees.
A pregnant woman, reportedly on her way to the hospital, was also arrested, as well as a man, clad in an all-white outfit, who had just returned from church.
Several others, including bus conductors mistaken for protestors, claimed they were denied bail and held without access to food, water, or legal representation for over two days.
Legal proceedings and denial of bail
All persons arrested were brought before an Accra circuit court in batches and charged with offences including conspiracy to unlawfully assemble, causing unlawful damage, and assault on a public officer. Many families reported that they had not been informed of the whereabouts of their detained relatives and had been denied access to them.
“As I speak to you now, most families do not know where their arrested relatives are. Only 39 of the 43 the police claimed they picked up were brought to court yesterday (Tuesday). Families and lawyers are acting on hearsay because the police are not providing any information regarding detained persons.” Franklin Ansah, who has his friend in custody said.
"They brought heavily armed police officers. As it stands, I still cannot find my cousin Glenn Sam. One of the lawyers informed us that the police had taken some arrested persons to Nsawam (a major prison) because the police cells were full," Edwin Yakah, a relative told GSW.
"Order from above"
Families searching for detained relatives were reportedly told that an "order from above" prohibited access to those in custody. This claim was repeated by officers at several police stations, leaving families and lawyers in the dark about their loved ones' conditions.
“When you go to the police station where your relative has been detained, they tell you 'order from above' says no one is entitled to speak to any of them. That is what we have been told. I was at Dansoman and Shukura police stations to look for my friend and they told me there’s an order from above not to allow them to grant access to detained persons,” Franklin said.
Government and Peace Council response
The government of Ghana has yet to issue an official statement regarding the arrests or the protest.
The National Peace Council has, however, issued a statement acknowledging the situation, further stating that they are working with relevant stakeholders to find a resolution.
