The Ghana Police Service has arrested 12 individuals in connection with various acts of violence related to the recent elections, including the destruction of the Electoral Commission (EC) office in Damongo. The arrests follow an incident in the Damongo Municipal Constituency where a group of angry youth set fire to the EC office in protest of the delayed declaration of election results. The fire caused significant damage to the building and its contents.
The Incident in Damongo
Eyewitnesses reported that the youth, frustrated by the prolonged wait for the election results, stormed the EC office and set it ablaze. The fire spread rapidly, consuming the entire structure. The incident highlights the volatile atmosphere that can arise during election periods, especially when there are delays in announcing results. This can lead to frustration and anger among the public, potentially escalating into violence[1].
Police Investigation and Response
In a statement, the Director of the Police Public Affairs Directorate, ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, confirmed the arrests and provided details of the preliminary investigation. The investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in various acts of violence and property damage, including the arson of the EC office in Damongo. The suspects also allegedly caused damage to residences of district chief executives in other parts of the country and vandalized collation centers. Additionally, some suspects broke into the school feeding programme warehouse in Tamale and stole food supplies[1].
The police have obtained footage of the attacks, vandalism, and looting and are reviewing it to identify and apprehend all perpetrators. To maintain law and order, police officers have been deployed to key locations with intensified patrols[1].
Implications and Future Considerations
The arrests and ongoing investigation highlight the importance of ensuring a peaceful and secure environment during elections. The delay in declaring results, coupled with the lack of communication and transparency, can contribute to public unrest and violence. It is crucial for the Electoral Commission to implement measures to address delays and ensure timely and transparent results.
The incident also underscores the need for robust security measures during elections. The police have a critical role to play in maintaining law and order, preventing violence, and ensuring the safety of individuals and property. The deployment of police officers to key locations and intensified patrols are essential steps to prevent further unrest.
The Ghanaian public must remain calm and cooperate with authorities as investigations progress. The perpetrators of these acts of violence must be brought to justice to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in future elections.
