Renowned Ghanaian contemporary artist Ibrahim Mahama has intensified his pursuit of accountability over an alleged assault involving police officers i
Renowned Ghanaian contemporary artist Ibrahim Mahama has intensified his pursuit of accountability over an alleged assault involving police officers in Tamale, insisting that his actions are driven by a quest for justice rather than any form of compensation.
The development comes amid escalating national attention on the incident, which reportedly occurred on March 21, 2026, during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in the Northern Region—an event that has since generated conflicting accounts between the victim and the police.
Mahama made his position clear after a high-level meeting with the Police Management Board (POMAB) at the Police Headquarters in Accra on Thursday, March 26, 2026, where discussions centered on ongoing investigations into the alleged assault involving members of the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as the “Black Maria.”
Addressing the media after the meeting, Ibrahim Mahama stressed that financial compensation was not his objective, emphasizing instead the importance of truth, accountability, and institutional transparency.
“There is no way we are looking for money. It’s not about that. It’s more just about justice,” he stated, underscoring his resolve to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are fully uncovered.
He further explained that beyond his personal experience, the case raises broader concerns about the protection of citizens’ rights in a democratic society, noting that the outcome must reinforce public trust in state institutions.
“We just want to make sure people understand what transpired that day… so that when other people are elsewhere, and things like this happen, they are assured that their matter will be taken seriously,” he added.
The alleged assault has triggered swift action from the Ghana Police Service, with the Inspector-General of Police directing a multi-layered investigation into the matter.
According to police authorities, both criminal and professional misconduct inquiries have been initiated simultaneously to ensure a comprehensive review of the incident.
Director of Public Affairs for the Police Service, DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, confirmed that the Police Professional Standards Bureau has commenced investigations, while the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters has been tasked to take over and expedite the process.
She disclosed that preliminary steps have already been undertaken by the Regional Command, including visits to the scene and the collection of witness statements, as part of efforts to establish the facts.
“The IGP has directed that we conduct both criminal and professional conduct investigations side by side,” she explained, assuring the public that the police are committed to a transparent and thorough process.
Mahama, who is widely respected both locally and internationally for his artistic work, expressed confidence in the assurances given by the IGP, stating that he believes the matter will be pursued to its logical conclusion.
“The IGP assured us that he will make sure they get to the bottom of it,” he noted.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, the artist struck a conciliatory tone, acknowledging the generally positive relationship he has had with the police over the years. He described himself as a “friend of the police,” noting that officers have often supported and engaged with his cultural projects.
However, he maintained that this particular incident must be addressed decisively to uphold justice and prevent future occurrences.
The police, for their part, have called for calm and patience as investigations continue, assuring the public that any officer found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
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