A 15-year-old boy, Simon Obeng, has reportedly died by suicide while in police custody at the Simpa Police Station in Tarkwa, located in the Western Region. His family is demanding a full investigation, alleging foul play by the police.
Simon was arrested last Thursday on allegations of stealing gold from his employer. According to police reports, he was found dead in his cell on Sunday, having allegedly hanged himself. Authorities say his family was promptly notified.
However, relatives have expressed deep suspicion about the circumstances surrounding his death.
“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.
Simon’s mother, Akua Atta, also questioned why her son was denied bail, especially when another person arrested alongside him had been released.
“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.”
In response, the Ghana Police Service has announced an internal investigation into the incident and assured the public of transparency and professionalism throughout the process.
There is also growing controversy over the boy’s age. While the police claim Simon indicated he was 18 years old in his official statement, his parents insist he was 15.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Hajia Fati Karim
