The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to social media content creators engaging in acts that border on criminality, revealing that at least one person has already been arrested for posting a masked video threatening to kill security personnel.
Speaking at a press briefing, Grace Ansah Akrofi said the Police Service is increasingly concerned about the misuse of social media platforms to spread fear, misinformation and violent threats under the guise of content creation.
According to DCOP Ansah Akrofi, individuals who engage in criminal conduct online will be tracked down and prosecuted.
“If you engage in any act, any behaviour, any conduct, in any shape or form that borders on criminality, the Ghana Police Service will fish you out, will pursue you, will get you arrested and bring you to face the full rigours of the law,” she warned.
She disclosed that one suspect who appeared in a masked video threatening to kill security personnel was identified and arrested by police.
The suspect later returned online with what appeared to be an apology, claiming the video was intended only for content creation. However, the Police Service insisted that such explanations do not excuse actions capable of threatening public safety.
DCOP Ansah Akrofi also referenced another incident from a few months ago in which a group of individuals dressed as bandits shared threatening videos directed at the Ghanaian public.
She said arrests were also made in that case as part of efforts to clamp down on unlawful online activities.
Beyond direct threats, the Police Service says it has observed a growing trend of online content that creates panic in communities and contributes to the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
The Police Service says it has intensified digital surveillance and online patrols to ensure Ghana’s online space is not exploited for criminal activities.
DCOP Ansah Akrofi urged content creators and social media users to act responsibly and remain mindful of the legal consequences of content that crosses the line into criminal conduct.
