The Ghana Police Service has denied allegations that its officers assaulted Ghanaian lawyer and activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor. 

In a press statement released on Sunday, October 20, the police clarified that Barker-Vormawor only sustained minor injuries while being transferred to another cell.

According to the police, the transfer became necessary after intelligence suggested that Barker-Vormawor was planning to harm other inmates.

The statement indicated that the transfer was carried out to prevent any possible incident within the prison facility.

The police further explained that this development occurred after Barker-Vormawor failed to meet the bail conditions set by the High Court on Wednesday, October 16. 

As a result, he remained in custody, and the transfer was part of standard security procedures.

In response to widespread social media claims that Barker-Vormawor had been physically assaulted by police officers, the statement refuted those allegations, insisting that no such abuse occurred during his time in custody.

The Ghana Police Service has urged the public to disregard these false claims and rely on verified information regarding the matter.

“On 19th October 2024, the Police had intelligence that the accused was planning to compromise the security of other inmates and the Police Station.”

“The Police, therefore, decided to transfer him to another cell, but he resisted, after several persuasion.”

“In the attempt to handcuff him, he sustained minor scratches on his right hand. He was then taken to the Hospital, where he was treated and discharged,” the statement said. 

Oliver Barker-Vormawor was part of the 53 Democracy Hub protesters who were arrested and detained for two weeks following their participation in an anti-illegal mining demonstration.

He was the last to be released on bail after three attempts.