By: Emmanuel Amoah
Oliver Barker-Vormawor, leader of the Democracy Hub, has been detained by the Ghana Police Service following a series of protests organized by the group in Accra. These demonstrations, which included road blockades and the obstruction of major intersections, escalated tensions between the protesters and law enforcement.
Barker-Vormawor’s arrest follows an earlier police announcement of a manhunt for him, after several demonstrators had already been apprehended. In fact, 42 individuals were taken into custody during Sunday’s protest and are expected to face court proceedings.
Despite heavy police presence, the third day of the protest, held on Monday, saw minimal activity, with nearly empty streets. However, two protesters who showed up with placards were promptly arrested.
Barker-Vormawor, a well-known activist, has consistently used his platform to highlight national issues. This particular protest was organized to urge the government to address the harmful effects of illegal mining and push for immediate action.
This arrest is not the first for Barker-Vormawor, as his activism has previously led to state action against him for activities considered unlawful.
The protests, led by the Democracy Hub, sought to draw attention to Ghana’s economic challenges and governance concerns. In earlier stages of the protest, several participants had been arrested for actions the police classified as illegal.
Before his capture, Barker-Vormawor had evaded police for a period, leading to a nationwide search. His eventual arrest marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing protest movement, which has garnered widespread public attention.
According to police reports, Barker-Vormawor is being held for his alleged role in inciting public disorder and spearheading the group’s efforts to block key roads. The authorities have emphasized that these activities caused significant disruptions to the city, inconveniencing commuters and affecting daily life in Accra.
