The Crime Check Foundation (CCF) has Condemned the police brutality at Tema Community 8 Police Station and called for justice for 20-year-old woman.
The Crime Check Foundation (CCF) is appalled and horrified by recent reports of police officer Clement Suputour of the Tema Community 8 Police Station Criminal Investigation Department (CID), who allegedly used excessive force and brutality by chopping off a 20-year-old Judith Yaakuma’s ear with a pair of pliers.
The victim had gone to the police station to find out why the police had arrested and detained her boyfriend on January 30, 2024. However, the police officer quickly arrested and subjected her to brutality and subsequently clipped her left ear with a pair of pliers, chopping part of it off.
We strongly condemn this act of brutality and heinous crime as it tantamounts to a blatant violation of the fundamental human rights of Ms. Judith and an egregious abuse of power that cannot be tolerated in any civilised society; therefore, we call for a prompt and thorough investigation into the matter. The police officer must be properly identified, held accountable for his actions, and brought to justice.
It is worth noting that police officers are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the law, protecting citizens, and ensuring public safety. However, when those sworn to serve and protect resort to such brutal and inhumane measures, it undermines public trust in the police service, which has largely demonstrated professionalism over the years.
It is our expectation that the rule of law will be upheld in this matter, and the officer responsible for this atrocity is not immune from the consequences of his actions. We also urge relevant authorities to take immediate action to address systemic issues within the Ghana Police Service that may contribute to such acts of violence and misconduct, and to ensure regular reinforcement of the human rights, ethics, and professional conduct of police officers to maintain the highest standards of integrity.
As a crime prevention civil society organisation, we strongly condemn all forms of police brutality and demand accountability for those who abuse their power. We further call on the government, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organisations to work together to prevent such incidents in the future and promote a culture of accountability and transparency within the police service.
We trust the commitment of the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and bring Clement Suputour to face the full rigours of the law.
Our thoughts are with the victim – Ms. Judith Yaakuma – of this senseless act of violence. We express our solidarity and support for her to receive justice. The Crime Check Foundation will continue to closely monitor the situation and advocate for justice, accountability, and respect for human rights in all aspects of law enforcement in Ghana.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact Alhaji Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, Executive Director, Crime Check Foundation. (Ph.D. Candidate, Centre for Migration Studies, University of Ghana).
