Tsopoli chief, family demand justice after alleged unlawful detention over land dispute

The Djangmaku Manya family from Ningo-Prampram is seeking justice. They claim the police unlawfully detained the Chief of Tsopoli, Nene Teyetso Bediako, and six others.

The group was arrested after estate developer Divine Amartey Odonkor accused them of encroachment. He claimed they destroyed property on land he owns.

Despite getting bail from the High Court in Accra, they remained in police custody for nine days. The family condemned this as a violation of their rights.

They were finally released after media coverage highlighted their situation. In an interview with journalist Rebecca Lartey, Chief Bediako expressed disappointment over how the police handled the case.

He called for a full investigation into the police and the developer's actions. Nene Bediako also demanded compensation for his humiliating time in custody.

He stated that it damaged his reputation as a traditional leader. “The police must explain why they detained us beyond court orders,” he said.

“This was not just a personal attack; it targeted our entire community.” Other members of the group shared similar concerns about their arrest being unjust and politically motivated.

They believe the developer is using his influence to intimidate them and seize ancestral lands. The family is now urging the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other authorities to investigate this matter thoroughly.