The Ghana Police Service, in conjunction with the Ghana National Fire Service, has officially commenced an investigation into a devastating fire that ravaged the Kwashieman Cluster of Schools during the early hours of Tuesday, 17th December 2024. This educational facility also housed the Ablekuma North Constituency ballot boxes from the recent December 7 elections, adding a layer of complexity to the incident.
In a reassuring statement released by the police, they have vowed to apprehend any individual or group responsible for this fire outbreak and ensure that they face the full force of the law. The authorities have urged the public to remain calm as investigations into the root cause of the fire continue to unfold.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has provided an update on the 132 individuals arrested across the country in connection with post-election disturbances. Out of these individuals, 45 have been remanded into custody, 71 have been granted police enquiry bail, and 16 are currently on court bail. It is essential to note that all suspects are undergoing the due process of the law.
In a related development, the police have shifted their focus to investigate the vandalism of President Nana Akufo-Addo’s statue at the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital Roundabout in Sekondi, Western Region. Preliminary findings indicate that the statue’s left leg has been damaged, and its plaque has been removed. Authorities have expressed their commitment to apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring that they are held accountable for their actions.
The controversial statue, unveiled during President Akufo-Addo’s “Thank You Tour” on 6th November 2024, has been a subject of nationwide debate. Despite the President touting his administration’s achievements during the unveiling ceremony and urging support for the New Patriotic Party’s presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the statue faced criticism from opposition figures. This controversy surrounding the statue became symbolic of the growing dissatisfaction with the government, culminating in the NPP’s defeat in the December 7 elections.
As tensions continue to simmer in the aftermath of the elections, the police investigations into both the fire outbreak and the vandalism of the President’s statue underscore the need for a peaceful transition of power in Ghana. It is imperative for all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and ensure that justice prevails in these challenging times.
