In a dramatic late-night operation that has sparked public outrage, state security operatives reportedly stormed the residence of New Patriotic Party
In a dramatic late-night operation that has sparked public outrage, state security operatives reportedly stormed the residence of New Patriotic Party (NPP) activist Sir-Obama Pokuase in what eyewitnesses have described as “Rambo-style,” breaking into his home without prior warning.
The arrest, which took place in the early hours of Wednesday, was followed by charges of “publication of false news” — a move critics say raises concerns about political intimidation and abuse of power.
Sources close to the activist say police operatives forced entry into the property without first serving a warrant or giving adequate notice, creating panic in the household.
The manner of the arrest, according to observers, bore the hallmarks of an armed robbery raid rather than a lawful police operation.
Critics have warned that such tactics put both citizens and officers at risk, as startled residents may mistake police for intruders and act in self-defense, potentially leading to tragic confrontations.
Sir-Obama, a known supporter of former Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, was taken into custody and was expected to appear in court yesterday.
The charges stem from his circulation of a viral video that he insists is factual.
His supporters argue that the material in question is both authentic and verifiable, and that the accusations of false publication are politically motivated.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the Ghana Police Service defended the arrest, describing it as part of “ongoing intelligence-led operations by the Police and other security agencies aimed at dismantling networks involved in the illegal possession and display of sophisticated weapons.”
The statement further claimed that these nationwide operations, which have been ongoing for weeks, have led to the seizure of a “significant number of illegal arms and ammunition.”
However, the juxtaposition of the police narrative has drawn criticism.
Observers have pointed out the apparent contradiction between the claim that Sir-Obama’s publication was “false” and the simultaneous admission that security agencies are indeed conducting major operations against illegal arms networks — a reality his viral video had highlighted.
Political analysts note that this arrest comes amid growing tensions between certain political activists and the current police administration. Some allege that the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Yohuno may be targeting individuals perceived as sympathetic to Dr. Dampare, who has retained significant grassroots support despite his recent removal from office.
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