Acting IGP cracks whip; interdicts police commander for unlawful detention

The Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), James Oppong-Boanuh, has interdicted the District Commander for Lakeside, DSP Eric Partey Opata, for unlawful detention of a suspect.

DSP Opata, according to a statement from police, kept the suspect in police custody for nine days without due process.

“In his absence the Adenta Divisional Police Commander, DSP/Mr. Cephas Coffie has been directed to supervise the command till further notice,” the statement on its website revealed.

Mr Oppong-Boanuh was recently made Acting IGP after President Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo asked David Asante-Apeatu to proceed on leave with immediate effect.

The Acting IGP’s decision on the Lakeside Commander, a rare occurrence, is seen as a sign that he intends to instil discipline in the police service.

The police have on many occasions been accused of abuse of power and unprofessional conduct.