Police confirm arrest of Democracy Hub protesters

The police have arrested several demonstrators from the Democracy Hub group for disturbing the peace and obstructing the free flow of traffic at the 37 Intersection, the security agency said in a statement. The protesters attempted to block sections of the road with a vehicle, dismantle police crash barriers, and attack officers on duty. In … The post Police confirm arrest of Democracy Hub protesters appeared first on Asaase Radio.

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Sep 22, 2024 - 13:40

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Police confirm arrest of Democracy Hub protesters

The police have arrested several demonstrators from the Democracy Hub group for disturbing the peace and obstructing the free flow of traffic at the 37 Intersection, the security agency said in a statement.

The protesters attempted to block sections of the road with a vehicle, dismantle police crash barriers, and attack officers on duty.

In response to these disruptions, the police were compelled to use lawful means to restrain the demonstrators and restore order. The vehicle causing the blockade was towed from the scene, while some protesters fled.

“We assure the public that the situation is under control, traffic is flowing freely, and the Police will continue to maintain security, law, and order,” a police spokesperson said.

Earlier warning

The Ghana Police Service had previously cautioned the leaders of Democracy Hub that lawful measures would be taken to maintain order, following disruptive protests that blocked roads and inconvenienced commuters on the first day of their demonstration.

In a statement, the police revealed that tensions arose due to a disagreement over the protest location. The Democracy Hub group insisted on staging their protest at the 37 Intersection, despite the Police offering seven alternate locations.

The protest caused significant disruptions across parts of Accra, leading to traffic gridlocks, road blockades, and a wave of inconvenience for daily commuters. Officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) were dispatched to assist drivers and pedestrians in navigating the chaos.

Despite police efforts to manage the situation, the demonstrators unlawfully occupied the 37 Intersection, blocking roads with vehicles, setting fires, and engaging in reckless behaviour, including playing football in the streets. The Police faced abuse from the protesters, while motorists were harassed, vehicles were damaged, and the gridlock left some commuters trapped for hours.

The widespread disruption affected individuals trying to access hospitals, attend funerals, or conduct commercial activities. Several travellers missed flights due to the blockade, further escalating the frustration.

Three-day protest

Democracy Hub had announced its intention to hold a three-day protest from 21-23 September 2024, at the Revolutionary Square, across Liberation Road, opposite the Jubilee House. The protest, organised under the theme “A New Constitution for a New Generation,” aims to spotlight pressing national issues.

In a formal statement, Democracy Hub confirmed that it has notified the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, in compliance with the Public Order Act. The group, known for its #FixTheCountry and #OccupyJulorbiHouse movements, seeks to address socio-economic injustice, unemployment, rising poverty, state capture, nepotism, corruption, and the need for judicial independence.

“The purpose of this demonstration is to highlight several critical issues plaguing Ghanaian society,” the statement read. “We remain committed to a peaceful and orderly protest, as we aim to shine a light on the need for transformative change in our nation.”

The group reiterated its dedication to maintaining peace and order during the event. It recalled the September 2023 #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest, which led to the arrest of several demonstrators. Despite this, Democracy Hub remains steadfast in advocating for a more just and inclusive society through their upcoming protest.

Reporting By Jonathan Ofori, Asaase Newsroom

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