A violent mob stormed the Kwame Danso District Court in the Bono East Region on Thursday, December 11, disrupted proceedings and forcibly freed three accused persons who had just been remanded into police custody.
The incident, which also left court property vandalised, has been strongly condemned by the Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG), which is calling for the immediate closure of the facility until proper security is provided.
Reports from the Kumasi Mail indicate that tensions began around 8:00 a.m. after a large group of youths gathered at the Kwame Danso Police Station to protest the remand of three suspects in the case The Republic v. Isaac Kwabena Mintah & 2 Others.
The suspects were before the court on charges of causing unlawful damage, stealing and assault under the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
After the accused persons were ordered into custody, the agitated crowd marched to the court premises.
With the court still in session, the mob forced its way inside, chased away staff and litigants, damaged furniture and equipment and freed the three suspects.
Some court workers sought safety by locking themselves in offices as the youth attempted to force their way into the magistrate’s chambers.
The situation was brought under control only after police reinforcement arrived from Atebubu.
No injuries were recorded, but staff members are said to be traumatised by the ordeal.
JUSAG, in a statement, condemned the raid and described it as part of a disturbing pattern of attacks on judicial institutions in the area.
The association has appealed to the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to shut down the court temporarily until adequate protection is provided.
It has also directed its members at the Kwame Danso court to stay away from work until their safety is assured and urged the Inspector General of Police to arrest and prosecute all those involved.
JUSAG extended sympathy to affected staff, security personnel and litigants.
Police investigations into the attack and the escape of the three suspects are ongoing.
