Lady sues Police and AG over assault in custody

Judith Yaa Kumah, a victim of police brutality, has filed a lawsuit seeking GH¢15 million in damages for human rights violations.

Ms. Kumah’s ordeal began on February 29, 2024, when she was arrested without being informed of the reason.

She was detained at the Community 8 Police Station, where Corporal Clement Suputour allegedly attempted to extract a confession from her forcibly.

The situation escalated, and Suputour cut off the upper part of Kumah’s right ear using a metal object.

Ms Kumah’s lawyer, Mr. Andrew Khartey, has sued the Ghana Police Service (GPS), Corporal Clement Suputour, and the Attorney General (AG) as the government’s legal representatives.

The defendants have eight days to respond to the suit, or judgement may be rendered in their absence.

The lawsuit seeks compensation for various violations, including:

• Human Rights Violations*: GH¢6 million for violations committed by the GPS and its employees.
• False Arrest, Assault, and Battery: GH¢3 million for the unlawful treatment Kumah endured.
• Negligence: GH¢3 million for the GPS’s failure to provide adequate medical care and attention.
• Fundamental Rights and Torturous Acts: GH¢3 million for the violations of Kumah’s fundamental rights and the torturous acts she suffered.

Khartey is also seeking a court order for the defendants to pay for all expenses related to the reconstruction of Kumah’s ear and resolving her hearing impairment.