Police have taken a man into custody in connection with the death of his 13-year-old daughter at Kokrobite, in the Weija area of Accra.
The victim, identified as Celestine Adonteng, was reportedly subjected to repeated acts of physical abuse by her father, 54-year-old mason Isaac Adonteng, before she later passed away.
The Weija Divisional Police Command has begun investigations into the incident. Preliminary information suggests the suspect accused the girl of taking food meant for her younger sibling and allegedly punished her in an excessively violent manner.
Officers say the child sustained injuries but did not receive medical attention and was instead kept inside a room at the family home.
Police visited the residence after a complaint was lodged and found the girl unresponsive. She was rushed to the Police Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The body has been placed at the hospital morgue for preservation and further examination.
Authorities retrieved several items from the home to aid the investigation.
In a statement, the Accra Regional Police Command reminded parents and guardians that harmful disciplinary practices are criminal and can lead to tragic outcomes.
The Command urged the public to report any signs of abuse and to prioritise the safety and well-being of children.
Below is a copy of the police statement
MAN ARRESTED FOR THE MURDER OF HIS DAUGHTER
- The Weija Divisional Police Command has commenced investigations into the tragic death of a 13-year-old girl, Celestine Adonteng, who was allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse by her father, Isaac Adonteng, at Kokrobite.
- Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect physically assaulted the victim with a cane, a metal pipe, and other objects after accusing her of taking food belonging to her younger sibling. Despite the victim sustaining multiple injuries, the suspect failed to seek medical care and kept her confined in a room. Police, acting on a complaint, proceeded to the residence where the victim was found unconscious. She was rushed to the Police Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The body has since been deposited at the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy..
- The suspect, Isaac Adonteng, a 54-year-old mason, has been arrested and detained to assist with investigations. Exhibits retrieved from the scene include a cutlass and a metal pipe allegedly used in the assault.
- The Accra Regional Police Command strongly cautions parents and guardians against the use of excessive force in correcting children, as such actions are unlawful and can lead to tragic outcomes.
- The Command urges the public to report all forms of child abuse and domestic violence promptly for swift intervention and protection of victims.
