Lawyer Enoch Afoakwa, representing detained nurse Salomey Awity Baffoe, has urged authorities to arrest the Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Dr. George Atta-Boateng. Afoakwa alleges that Dr. Atta-Boateng breached the law during Salomey's arrest, specifically regarding the welfare of her children. The arrest was conducted in a midnight operation at her residence in Hansua, Techiman Municipality. Afoakwa argues that security agencies cannot breach the law while enforcing it.
Salomey Baffoe, a senior nursing officer and mother of three, faces allegations of abetment of publication of false news related to the "Ghana Jollof" TikTok account. Police investigations linked her to Barbara Asantewaa Kodua, the account's operator. Afoakwa claims that during the arrest, Salomey's children were left unattended, potentially putting them at risk. He emphasizes that authorities must not use unlawful methods while enforcing the law, citing that breaching the law to make an arrest is not acceptable.
Afoakwa stresses that Dr. Atta-Boateng's actions during the arrest constitute a breach of statutory provisions. He believes the NSB boss should be held accountable for disregarding the welfare of Salomey's children. Afoakwa argues that if Ghana is a serious country, Dr. Atta-Boateng should have been arrested by now for his alleged breaches. The lawyer also warns of potential further legal action against the state regarding Salomey's detention.
Salomey was arraigned and remanded by the Adenta Circuit Court after her arrest. Reports of the arrest have raised concerns about her children's treatment and the operation's conduct. Afoakwa had earlier expressed concerns about Salomey's health, stating she was unwell but had no proper access to her. The lawyer may seek compensation for Salomey through the courts if her detention is found to be unlawful.
The "Ghana Jollof" case has garnered significant attention, with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) demanding Salomey's release. Afoakwa previously stated that Salomey was unlawfully detained before arraignment. The case has sparked debate about the conduct of security agencies during arrests and the protection of human rights.
Afoakwa cautions that Salomey's detention circumstances could result in further legal action against the state. He emphasizes that if Salomey is granted bail, she can seek compensation for unlawful detention. The High Court is set to hear Salomey's bail bid. The case continues to raise questions about the balance between enforcing the law and protecting human rights.
The incident has brought attention to the need for security agencies to operate within the law. Key issues in the case include the alleged breach of Salomey's human rights and the conduct of the NSB during the arrest. The case will likely continue to be closely watched as it progresses through the courts.
Key points
- Lawyer Enoch Afoakwa calls for the arrest of Dr. George Atta-Boateng over alleged breaches during Salomey Awity Baffoe's arrest.
- Salomey Baffoe faces allegations of abetment of publication of false news related to the "Ghana Jollof" TikTok account.
- The incident raises concerns about the conduct of security agencies during arrests and the protection of human rights.
