A woman lost her life on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Pigfarm, a suburb of Accra, when a stray bullet from the police hit her during an anti-robbery operation.
The tragic incident occurred during a morning raid that resulted in the arrest of two suspected members of a gang linked to a number of robberies.
The woman was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service expressed deep sadness and extended condolences to the family of the deceased.
The police operation, which had been ongoing for some time, aimed to apprehend members of a criminal gang involved in multiple robberies.
Two gang members were successfully arrested that Saturday, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining members.
The police confirmed that the unfortunate incident resulted from a stray bullet accidentally hitting the woman during the operation.
Her body has been deposited at the morgue for preservation and an autopsy.
The leadership of the Police Service has visited the bereaved family and has pledged to provide them with the necessary support during this difficult time.
The incident has sparked a local outcry raising questions about the use of firearms during police operations and the safety protocols in place.
The Ghana Police Service has promised to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Human rights organizations have called for an independent investigation into the incident and for accountability for the loss of an innocent life.
This tragic incident underscores the need for proper training in the use of firearms by law enforcement officers and the implementation of safety protocols to ensure the safety of civilians during police operations.
It also highlights the importance of fostering dialogue between the police and communities to build trust and understanding, and to address concerns related to law enforcement practices.
The Ghana Police Service has committed to working with the community and civil society organizations to address these concerns and to protect the safety and security of all citizens.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing work needed to reform and strengthen the law enforcement system in Ghana, promoting transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights.
By Vincent Kubi