The Medical Laboratory Professional Workers' Union (MELPWU) has expressed concern over what it says is the wrongful arrest and detention of one of its members, Mr. Isaac Sakyi, a Medical Laboratory Scientist at St. Elizabeth Catholic Hospital in Hwidiem in the Asutifi South District.

The incident occurred during a joint military-police operation in the early hours of Wednesday, 12th November 2025, and has prompted calls for an immediate and unconditional release.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday, Mr. Sakyi, who had just finished his night shift, was making a phone call at the entrance of the hospital premises when he was suddenly accosted by military personnel.

Eyewitnesses allege that Mr. Sakyi was assaulted before being taken away by the soldiers without any explanation. His colleagues and MELPWU representatives who followed up with the Hwidiem Police Station were informed that he had been transferred to Tepa under unclear circumstances.

In response to the incident, MELPWU has condemned the actions of the security personnel involved, describing them as an abuse of power and a violation of Mr. Sakyi’s rights.

The union further stated that the arrest and detention were a direct affront to the dignity of all law-abiding professionals who serve their communities with dedication and integrity.

“We demand his immediate and unconditional release, as no justification exists for his unlawful arrest and detention,” the union said in a statement. “MELPWU views this action as a blatant disregard for the rule of law and a serious violation of the rights of an innocent citizen.”

While acknowledging the importance of the ongoing joint security operations aimed at curbing illegal mining activities (galamsey) in the Ashanti, Ahafo, and Volta Regions, MELPWU insisted that law enforcement must operate within the confines of the law and respect the rights of innocent citizens.

The union warned that such arbitrary arrests and intimidation could erode public trust in security agencies and potentially undermine the legitimate national security efforts being undertaken.

“MELPWU calls on the Acting Minister for Defence, the Minister for the Interior, and the Inspector-General of Police to urgently intervene to secure the release of Mr. Sakyi,” the statement continued.

“We also demand that those responsible for his assault and unlawful detention be held accountable for their actions.”

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In addition, MELPWU urged both the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service to adopt a more professional, intelligence-driven approach in their operations. The union stressed the importance of ensuring that innocent citizens, especially those with no involvement in illegal activities, are not unjustly punished or targeted.

“Should our member not be released within the shortest possible time, MELPWU will be left with no choice but to advise itself on the next line of action in defence of our members’ rights and safety,” the union warned.

MELPWU reiterated its commitment to the rule of law, justice, and civility in national security operations, and called on all stakeholders to ensure that innocent professionals, such as Mr. Sakyi, are not made victims of systemic overreach.