The Ghana Police Service confirmed the interdiction of three police officers attached to the Western Regional Motor Traffic and Transport Department. An official police statement identifies the officers as Inspector Veridiana Yawson and Sergeant Gifty Boakye and Sergeant Sondzi Kojo. The action follows an investigation into a viral video that allegedly shows the personnel demanding money from a driver during a traffic stop along the Agona Nkwanta to Takoradi road.
According to the official Ghana Police Service statement the three officers have been removed from active duty to allow for a thorough disciplinary process. The police administration stated that the conduct of the officers is contrary to the professional standards expected of the service. Graphic Online reports that the video sparked public outcry after it appeared to show the officers negotiating a bribe with a motorist on the highway.
The Police Professional Standards Bureau is currently handling the internal investigation to determine the level of misconduct by each officer. 3News reports that the incident occurred in the Western Region and that the video evidence played a central role in the swift decision to interdict the personnel. The police administration has assured the public that any officer found guilty of extortion or professional lapses will face the full weight of the service regulations.
Citi Newsroom reports that the motorist involved in the incident is expected to assist the Police Professional Standards Bureau with their ongoing inquiry. No criminal charges have been filed in a court of law as of the latest official updates but the internal disciplinary proceedings are ongoing. The Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to weeding out corruption within the ranks and urged the public to continue reporting such incidents with evidence.