Ghanaians have called for the prosecution of a police officer stationed in Berekum for allegedly assaulting a 24-year-old man over rice.
The incident happened in Berekum, a township located in the western part of the Bono Region in Ghana. The police officer reportedly bit the nose of Innusah Mohammed, a 24-year-old man, following a misunderstanding over queuing to purchase rice.
Before the incident occurred, the people of the region were excited over the arrival of truckloads of a relatively cheaper rice. This was a significant relief to since this also came with a substantial price drop.
Previously, a 25kg bag of rice was priced at GH₵700 under the leadership of former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
Now, the price has been slashed to just GH₵250 under the President John Mahama administration, bringing a surge in demand within the locality of Berekum.
As the crowds rushed to get their share, tensions heightened when the officer allegedly attempted to use his authority to skip the queue. His actions were met with resistance from several individuals, which led to an exchange of heated words.
The altercation escalated quickly into a violent confrontation, during which saw the police official reportedly bite Innusah Mohammed’s nose, leaving the man bleeding profusely.
The incident has left residents questioning the conduct of law enforcement officials and raising concerns over the growing frustrations surrounding the recent price drop of essential goods.
At the time of filing this report, local authorities have yet to release an official statement on the matter. The video of the victim, Innusah Mohammed, narrating his ordeal.
https://www.tiktok.com/@newscentertv/video/7512483822177422598
