The Human Rights Division of the High Court in Accra has ruled that the Ghana Police Service breached the fundamental human rights of journalists and protesters during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration held in September 2023.
Delivering judgment on Thursday, May 14, Justice Nana Brew held that the conduct of police officers during the protest was unconstitutional and amounted to violations of the rights of demonstrators and members of the media.
The case, Bridget Otoo & 2 Others v. Inspector General of Police & Attorney-General, was brought by journalist Bridget Otoo and two other applicants who alleged assault, unlawful detention, and obstruction while covering and participating in the protest.
The #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration drew widespread public attention as citizens protested economic hardship, governance concerns, and alleged corruption. However, reports from the event indicated clashes between security personnel and demonstrators, including journalists.
The court found that police officers deployed to maintain order engaged in actions that went beyond lawful duty, including physical assaults, unlawful detention, and interference with journalistic work.
Justice Brew noted that such conduct fell short of constitutional standards expected of law enforcement agencies tasked with safeguarding peaceful protests and protecting the media.
Evidence presented to the court showed that Bridget Otoo was allegedly assaulted during the protest, with claims that her clothing was torn in the process.
Another applicant, Vanessa Edotom Boateng, was said to have been unlawfully detained, while her mobile phone was seized to prevent her from recording alleged police misconduct.
The third applicant, George Gyening Anyang, was reportedly beaten while livestreaming events at a police station, with allegations of assault involving slaps, punches, a metallic belt, and a baton.
The court awarded GH¢100,000 in compensatory damages, GH¢50,000 in general damages, and GH¢30,000 in legal costs in favour of the applicants.
It also ordered the Ghana Police Service to issue an unqualified public apology in the Daily Graphic.
However, the court declined a request for higher legal costs, noting that excessive financial penalties could impair the operational effectiveness of the police service.
Justice Brew further referenced earlier cases involving similar allegations of police excesses during public demonstrations, expressing concern over recurring patterns.
He urged the current leadership of the Ghana Police Service to strengthen adherence to human rights standards, particularly in dealings with journalists, activists, and protesters.
The ruling adds to ongoing national conversations about policing, media freedom, and the constitutional right to peaceful assembly in Ghana.
