The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation following an attack on the office and residence of the Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, on Monday, December 9, 2024.
A gang of about 15 men allegedly stormed the premises, vandalising property and stealing several items, including a branded Nissan Hardbody vehicle, three brand-new motorbikes, a 32-inch Samsung television set, a printer, mobile phones, food supplies, two stabilisers, and an undisclosed amount of cash. The attackers also destroyed CCTV cameras, barbed wire, and the office door.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service confirmed that a Crime Scene Management team had examined the site as part of the investigation. A targeted intelligence-led operation is underway to apprehend the suspects.
“Currently, a targeted intelligence-led operation is ongoing to get the suspects arrested to face justice, and we assure the public that we will get them,” the police said.
Security at Mrs Owusu-Ekuful’s office and residence has been reinforced to ensure her safety.
Possible election unrest connection
https://twitter.com/Graphicgh/status/1866381532547715565
While authorities have not confirmed a direct link between this attack and the unrest following Ghana’s 2024 general elections, the incident adds to a tense post-election climate. In Damongo, angry youth set the Electoral Commission office ablaze, protesting delays in announcing election results.
Mrs Owusu-Ekuful, a prominent member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and outgoing Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West, lost her seat to Rev Kweku Addo of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Rev Addo secured 31,866 votes to Owusu-Ekuful’s 26,575.
In a broader context, the Ghana Police Service has arrested 89 individuals linked to various election-related offences, with 40 suspects implicated in vandalism, looting, and property destruction.
Call for calm and order
The Police have called on the public to maintain peace and avoid unlawful actions as the nation transitions toward a new administration.
“Meanwhile, the Police leadership is in contact with her, and security at her office and residence has been beefed up to ensure her safety,” the statement concluded.
Authorities have assured Ghanaians of their commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring public safety amid heightened security measures.
