A former detainee from Avume Anloga in the Anlo District of the Volta Region, Mr. Akor Lionpi Kwashie, has shared his experience of conditions in police custody, describing the environment as horrible, overcrowded and uncomfortable.
Mr. Kwashie made the remarks during the Duamenefa Social Intervention Programme on Fafaa FM in an interview with the Executive President of the Duamenefa Foundation and CEO of Fafaa 100.3 Fm Dzodze,Mr. Ketaman Emmanuel Evortepe.
According to Mr. Kwashie, approximately 10 detainees were held in a single cell, where the same enclosed space served as the sleeping area, toilet, and bathing facility. He said the limited space forced detainees to sit on the bare floor with their legs stretched out and their backs against the wall.
Describing the conditions as very horrific, he stated that the experience highlighted the challenges faced by individuals while in police custody.
During the interview, Mr. Evortepe asked whether, based on his experience, he considered the police cell to be a desirable place. Mr. Kwashie responded in the negative.
The Executive President subsequently advised him to conduct himself responsibly and ensure that the allegations made against him were addressed through the appropriate legal and customary processes.
Background information contained in a petition submitted to the Duamenefa Foundation indicates that Mr. Kwashie became involved in a family dispute over allegations that he had forcefully sold family land.
The petition further alleged that the disagreement was accompanied by claims of spiritual attacks and other related accusations, which contributed to escalating tensions within the family.
According to the Foundation, traditional authorities initially attempted to resolve the matter through customary mediation. However, it is alleged that Mr. Kwashie did not fully participate in the traditional dispute-resolution process, resulting in further escalation and his subsequent arrest and detention.
The Duamenefa Foundation stated that protecting lives and promoting peaceful conflict resolution remain central to its mission. It noted that it will continue to monitor the matter and carry out further investigations where necessary to ensure appropriate intervention.
The petition has also renewed public discussion about conditions in some police detention facilities, with some members of the public calling for improvements in sanitation, ventilation, and the general welfare of detainees while in lawful custody.
Observers have also highlighted the importance of strengthening alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, particularly in family and land-related conflicts, to prevent disagreements from escalating into criminal proceedings and detention.
Residents of Avume Anloga are reportedly following developments closely, with many encouraging all parties to cooperate with ongoing mediation efforts to achieve a peaceful and lasting settlement.
The incident has further renewed attention on the role of traditional authorities in resolving community disputes, with stakeholders emphasizing that early mediation can help prevent conflicts from developing into prolonged legal confrontations.
Meanwhile, the Duamenefa Foundation says it will continue engaging traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and relevant institutions through its social intervention initiatives aimed at promoting peace, reconciliation, and community stability.
The Foundation also urged members of the public to act responsibly in their personal and community dealings, noting that lawful conduct and respect for both customary authority and the laws of Ghana can help prevent avoidable disputes and custodial situations.
It further encouraged individuals involved in family and land disputes to pursue lawful, peaceful, and dialogue-based solutions rather than allowing disagreements to escalate into conflict or detention.
By Hutor Dziwornu, Fafaa 100.3 FM, Dzodze
Edited by Isabella Evortepe