The Ghana Police Service has strongly denied allegations that Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a key accused person, was returned to police custody from the Police Hospital due to an inability to cover his medical expenses.
In a statement released on Friday, 11 October, the Police Service expressed deep concern over the claims, describing them as deliberate misinformation aimed at tarnishing the image of the police and stirring public discontent.
“These claims are palpable falsehoods and part of a series of attempts to court public sympathy,” the statement read. The Police emphasised that the full cost of Barker-Vormawor’s medical treatment was covered by the Ghana Police Service, in accordance with their Standard Operating Procedures regarding suspects in custody. Citing doctor-patient confidentiality, the police stated they are unable to share specific evidence concerning the medical expenses.
Furthermore, the police refuted reports that Barker-Vormawor had been rushed to the hospital. « The public is, therefore, urged to disregard these baseless claims, » the statement concluded.
The incident follows the arrest and detention of Barker-Vormawor other protesters of pressure group, Democracy Hub who were demonstrating to call for an end to illegal mining also known as galamsey. The three-day protest turned violent on the second day, with the protesterd clashing with police officers.
Meanwhile after spending two weeks in remand, 53 out of the 54 arrested were granted bail by the High Court in Accra, but Barker-Vormawor was denied bail.
Pulse
