The Ghana Prisons Service has confirmed the tragic lynching of Lance Corporal Gideon Adu Boakye, a prison officer stationed at Nsawam Medium Security Prison, who was brutally killed at Kasoa Iron City on September 29, 2024 .
This tragedy highlights concerns about public mistrust of law enforcement and the persistence of mob justice in Ghana.
Misidentification of officers and false accusations have led to deadly attacks, fueled by perceptions of a slow or ineffective justice system.
According to Superintendent Adamu Latif Abdul, Chief Public Relations Officer, Boakye was attacked by unknown assailants while visiting relatives in Kasoa.
“We have gathered that he went to visit his mother, and he went out to attend to some issues and the incident happened. Days later when he didn’t return the mother reported to the police.
The body of prison officer Gideon Adu Boakye, who was lynched in Kasoa, was recovered on October 1, 2024, with multiple wounds, including suspected stab injuries and blunt force trauma.
Investigation and Arrests
The Prisons Administration is working closely with the Police to investigate the circumstances surrounding Boakye’s murder.
Six suspects, comprising four females and two males, have been arrested and arraigned before the court .
They have been remanded for further investigation.
Condemnation of Mob Justice
The Ghana Prisons Service strongly condemns the use of “instant justice” and urges the public to report suspects to the Police to prevent harm to innocent individuals.
The Service extends its condolences to Boakye’s family, friends, and loved ones and assures that justice will be served.
Call for Calm
The Ghana Prisons Service appeals to its officers to remain calm as authorities work to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The incident highlights the need for vigilance and adherence to the law to prevent such tragic events.