Democracy Hub has reported that 32 individuals who participated in the ongoing anti-illegal mining demonstration, #StopGalamseyNow, remain unaccounted for.
The group has accused the Ghana Police Service of refusing to disclose the total number of people arrested during the protests and of denying the detainees access to legal counsel—a violation of their fundamental rights.
Obstruction of justice and lack of transparency
In an update on the situation, Democracy Hub criticized the police for obstructing justice by preventing detainees from consulting with lawyers.
The group described the lack of legal access as “deeply concerning” and a violation of the rule of law.
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, an activist affiliated with the protest, posted on Facebook that repeated requests for information regarding the detainees’ whereabouts have gone unanswered by the police.
“This lack of transparency only heightens concerns about the safety and well-being of those arrested,” Democracy Hub said in a statement, adding that the protesters were being frequently transferred between police stations, making it difficult to track them and provide legal support.
Frequent transfers frustrate legal assistance
Democracy Hub revealed that the protesters had been moved between several police stations across Accra, including Jamestown, Adabraka, Nima, Ministries, Taifa, Westlands, Accra Central, Tesano, Legon, Ringway, and Kaneshie Police Stations. The group claimed that this constant relocation appears to be a deliberate strategy to frustrate legal intervention and prevent access to necessary support.
Protesters denied basic necessities
The group also condemned the police for depriving the detainees of basic necessities such as water, food, female hygiene products, and toiletries.
Democracy Hub called this treatment “inhumane” and a gross violation of the detainees’ rights.
Call for justice and international attention
Democracy Hub is calling on civil society organizations, concerned citizens, and the international community to join in demanding justice, transparency, and humane treatment for the arrested protesters.
The group has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and providing updates as necessary.
