The Ghana Police Service has initiated investigations into an alleged assault involving officers of its Black Maria Unit, following a complaint by Tamale-based international artist Ibrahim Mahama.
The directive, issued by Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, tasks both the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Police Intelligence and Professional Standards (PIPS) Unit to probe the incident and ensure a swift outcome.
The move signals the Police Administration’s intent to address concerns over professional conduct within its ranks, with assurances that any officer found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary action.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director-General of the Public Affairs Directorate, confirmed that the Service would fully cooperate with the artist and his family throughout the process.
Mahama, who reported the incident after an alleged confrontation with officers in Tamale about a week ago, says his primary goal is not compensation but justice. He believes a fair outcome will strengthen public trust in law enforcement and reinforce Ghana’s image as a safe and law-abiding nation.
The artist recently honoured an invitation to the National Police Headquarters in Accra, where he met with the Police Management Board alongside family members. He described the engagement as a positive step, expressing confidence in the IGP’s swift intervention.
Providing details of the incident, Mahama indicated that the situation escalated from an earlier altercation involving his uncle and police personnel. He said tensions rose after he began recording the encounter, leading to a physical confrontation.
Mahama also disclosed that he sustained injuries during the incident, including damage to his teeth, and will undergo further medical evaluation and treatment in Accra due to limited diagnostic facilities in Tamale.
While maintaining that he holds no general grievance against the Police Service, he stressed the importance of accountability in this case and expressed hope that such incidents would not recur.
