STC Manager, Businessman Arrested Over Ablekuma North Election Violence
Police Arrest Two in Ablekuma North Election Chaos
Violent Re-run Sparks Arrests
The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested two individuals linked to the July 11 parliamentary re-run violence in Ablekuma North. Among them is 46-year-old Musah Muntari, a Station Manager at STC. The second suspect is 43-year-old businessman Ali Saeed, also known as Mboma.
They are both in custody and are currently assisting police with investigations.
Chaos at the Polls
The re-run election turned violent when masked men stormed polling stations. Voters, journalists, and political figures faced attacks, throwing the process into disarray.
For instance, at the St. Peter’s polling centre, NPP candidate Nana Akua Owusu Afriyie and former MP Mavis Hawa Koomson were physically assaulted. Witnesses reported that the attackers arrived on motorbikes and in a pickup truck.
Journalists Targeted During Coverage
Several journalists were not spared. Salomey Martey of JoyNews was slapped and shoved. GHOne TV’s Kwabena Agyekum Banahene was reportedly assaulted by a uniformed officer. Vida Wiafe from ATV was pepper-sprayed.
These incidents have sparked national outrage.
Police Pledge Swift Justice
In response, Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs at the Accra Police Command, promised that all culprits would be brought to justice.
“We assure the public that anyone involved in these acts of violence or intimidation will face the law,” she stated. She also urged the public to support investigations by calling emergency numbers 18555 or 191.
Widespread Condemnation
The attacks drew strong condemnation from the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA). They are demanding justice for the affected reporters.
Additionally, the Coalition of Domestic Election Observers (CODEO) and the Minority in Parliament criticized police officers for not intervening during the violence—despite being present at polling stations.
National Peace Council Calls for Calm
Meanwhile, the National Peace Council has appealed to political leaders to discourage violence. They emphasized the need to uphold Ghana’s democratic integrity and ensure peaceful elections moving forward.
Takeaway
This disturbing event underscores the urgent need for accountability and protection during electoral processes. Police efforts are ongoing, but public cooperation is crucial to ensuring justice and preventing future violence.
