The Ghana Police Service has dismissed reports circulating in the media that claim activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor was beaten by officers while in custody.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 20 the police described the allegations as “false and baseless,” urging the public to disregard them as an attempt by Barker-Vormawor and his supporters to garner public sympathy.
The police clarified that Barker-Vormawor, who is being prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General, was granted bail by the High Court on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
The bail was set at GH¢20,000 with two sureties, without justification. However, multiple efforts to execute the bail have been unsuccessful due to the accused’s inability to secure the necessary sureties.
On October 19, 2024, police intelligence indicated that Barker-Vormawor was allegedly planning to compromise the security of other inmates and the police station. As a result, the police attempted to transfer him to another cell.
According to the statement, Barker-Vormawor resisted the transfer, and despite repeated attempts to persuade him, the situation escalated when officers tried to handcuff him. He sustained minor scratches on his right hand in the process and was immediately taken to the hospital, treated, and later discharged.
The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order, while ensuring the protection of all individuals in their custody, including suspects like Barker-Vormawor.
