In response to a leaked audio recording circulating on various platforms, the Police Service of Ghana has taken the unprecedented step of interdicting three high-ranking officers. These officers include Commissioner of Police (COP) Alex Mensah, Superintendent George Asare, and Superintendent Emmanuel Eric Gyebi.
The leaked audio recording allegedly involves discussions concerning the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and has garnered significant attention on social media and other platforms. It is reported that the audio features conversations among these senior police officers and Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), discussing potential strategies for the IGP’s removal.
In light of this controversy, a memo from the police issued on Thursday stated, “The Police Service has interdicted Commissioner Mr. George Alex Mensah, Superintendent Mr. Emmanuel Eric Gyebi, and Superintendent Mr. George Lysander Asare in connection with the audio tape, which has become a subject matter of investigation by Parliament. The interdiction is to make way for disciplinary proceedings into their conduct in line with Police Service regulations.”
During a parliamentary committee hearing, COP Mensah accused IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare of mismanaging the Police Service and contributing to a decline in morale among police officers. He also acknowledged his involvement in politics without specifying the party but aligned his comments with sentiments expressed in the leaked audio, where he discussed the need to remove the IGP to ensure the victory of the NPP in the 2024 elections.
Both COP Mensah and Supt. Asare disputed the authenticity of the original tape, claiming that it had been doctored. However, a new twist emerged when another tape was revealed during the investigation. COP Mensah and Supt. Asare testified that portions of the original tape were altered, prompting the parliamentary committee, led by Samuel Atta Akyea, to consider its next steps.
The committee will review the tape and transcript, possibly summoning all stakeholders and their lawyers for cross-examination and deliberating on whether certain aspects should be kept confidential due to national security concerns. The investigation’s unfolding complexity has led to an indefinite adjournment of the proceedings as the committee navigates this intricate web of allegations and counterclaims. The outcome will be eagerly awaited, considering the potential national security implications.
