At the Simpa Police Station in Tarkwa, Western Region, a 15-year-old boy named Simon Obeng is said to have committed suicide while in police custody.
Due to allegations of police misconduct, his family is calling for a thorough investigation. Simon was detained last Thursday on suspicion of embezzling gold from his boss.
Police said he reportedly hanged himself and was discovered dead in his cell on Sunday. Authorities said that his family was informed right away.
Family members, however, have voiced serious concerns regarding the circumstances of his passing.
“On Saturday, we went to the police station to bail our relation, but the officer in charge said it was too late and asked us to return the next day,” his brother told Empire News.
“He also told us Simon had been moved to another cell, so we couldn’t see him. We waited until Sunday, only to receive a call that he had committed suicide. But I don’t believe that. There were no signs suggesting he would take his own life. We suspect foul play and believe the officers know more than they’re saying,” he added.
Akua Atta, Simon’s mother, also questioned why her son was not granted bail, following the release of another individual who was arrested with him.
“What I find suspicious is that someone who was arrested with my son was granted bail, but my son wasn’t,” she said. “I’m pleading with the government and the appropriate authorities to investigate this matter. I need to know what really happened to my son.”
The Ghana Police Service responded by announcing an internal investigation into the incident and promising the public openness and professionalism all along the way.
The boy’s age is another issue that is becoming more and more contentious. Simon’s parents maintain he was 15 years old, despite the police claiming he stated in his formal statement that he was 18.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh