violent mob attack on the Kwame Danso District Court on Wednesday led to the disruption of court proceedings, destruction of property, and the escape of three accused persons who had just been remanded.
The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) has since condemned the incident and is calling for the temporary closure of the court.
The unrest began around 8:00 a.m. on December 10, when a large group of youths reportedly gathered at the Kwame Danso Police Station, chanting and expressing anger over the remand of the accused persons in the case The Republic v. Isaac Kwabena Mintah & 2 Others.
The suspects had been charged with causing unlawful damage, stealing, and assault under the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Upon learning of the court’s decision to remand the suspects, the mob moved to the District Court.
While proceedings were still underway, they forced their way into the courtroom wielding harmful objects. The group dispersed staff and litigants, vandalized furniture and office equipment, and freed the accused individuals.
Court staff were compelled to lock themselves inside offices to escape the attack, while the mob attempted to break into the magistrate’s chambers.
The situation was brought under partial control only after reinforcement from the Atebubu Police Unit arrived.
No injuries have yet been confirmed, but staff reportedly suffered traumatic experiences and continue to fear for their safety.
In a statement, JUSAG said the repeated violent attacks on justice institutions in the area threaten not only the administration of justice but also Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy governed by the rule of law.
The association strongly condemned the attack and appealed to the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to close down the Kwame Danso District Court until adequate security measures are put in place.
JUSAG further advised court staff to stay away from work until their safety is assured and called on the Inspector General of Police to immediately pursue and arrest all perpetrators.
The association extended sympathy to the distressed court workers, security officers, and court users affected by the incident.
Police investigations into the attack and the escape of the accused persons are ongoing. The Judicial Service is yet to issue an official statement.
