A harrowing child sexual abuse case in the Possum community of the Bawku Municipality has sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within Ghana’s child protection and law-enforcement structures.
Despite confirmed medical reports and an alleged confession by a 47-year-old trader, police in Bawku have been unable to secure justice for two young sisters—aged seven and four—who were repeatedly sexually assaulted. The suspect, identified as Sulley Fongo, allegedly lured the children with sweets and warned them against reporting the abuse.
Medical documents from the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital confirm injuries consistent with penetrative assault. Yet, months after the report, the suspect remains free in the community, while the children’s mother— a widow struggling to support her family—continues to seek justice.
Police have reportedly referred the case to the regional office due to insecurity in Bawku. However, community advocates argue that such delays demonstrate critical gaps in systems meant to protect vulnerable children.
Families Left to Fight Alone
The children’s mother, who sells sachet water to survive, says she has followed every formal channel but has been left without updates or support. The suspect reportedly attempted an out-of-court settlement, with his family paying GH¢3,200 for medical treatment—an action that rights advocates warn could undermine justice and normalize abuse in rural communities.
Institutional Voices Demand Action
Child-rights organisations have condemned the delay.
Jonathan Adabre, Executive Director of the Development Research and Advocacy Centre (DRAC), urged law-enforcement agencies and social welfare institutions to intervene immediately:
“This case must not be allowed to disappear. Institutions must deliver justice and psychosocial support to the survivors and their family.”
Regional Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) officials confirm the case is under review but note security challenges in Bawku have slowed investigations.
A Wider Crisis of Impunity
Local child-protection officers say the Bawku case reflects a disturbing pattern of sexual abuse going unpunished in the region—often shielded by fear, cultural silence, and institutional weakness.
In 2020 alone, the Upper East Region recorded 65 defilement cases, though social workers believe the real numbers are far higher. Some cases, advocates say, are buried by family pressure or informal settlements that rob victims of justice and support.
A Call for Reform
Civil society groups warn that unless police, social welfare institutions, and judicial bodies strengthen coordination and prioritise prosecution, perpetrators will continue to act with impunity.
For the two young sisters at the centre of this case, and others like them across the region, the path to healing remains long—and justice still distant.
