Police arrest man linked to viral domestic-violence video

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a man seen in a viral Facebook video assaulting a woman believed to be his wife at Ofankor.

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) said the suspect, identified as John Odartey Lamptey, was picked up on Monday, November 17, 2025, at the family residence after investigators traced him through details captured in the widely circulated footage.

The video showed a man repeatedly attacking a woman in a compound, prompting public outrage and calls for urgent police action.

CID Public Relations Officer Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo described the arrest as “a necessary step to safeguard the victim and ensure accountability for the violence captured on camera.”

“The Service will not tolerate any form of domestic abuse, especially acts brazenly committed in homes where individuals should feel safest,” she added.

According to the statement, two of Lamptey’s siblings, Grace Kushie Lamptey and Louis Odartey Lamptey, were also arrested after they attempted to attack a female tenant they suspected of recording and circulating the video.

“The tenant was rescued to ensure her safety after the siblings confronted her aggressively,” Chief Inspector Babanawo said. “Their actions amounted to an attempt to intimidate a witness, which is a serious offence under Ghanaian law.”

Police say efforts are ongoing to locate the wife, who fled before officers arrived. Investigators believe she may be in hiding for fear of further harm.

“Our priority is to find her and offer the necessary protection, psychological support, and medical attention,” an officer familiar with the case said. “Victims often flee because they feel unsafe, and it is our duty to reassure them that the law is firmly on their side.”

The Police Service urged the public to continue reporting domestic-violence cases and sharing credible information that can help protect vulnerable individuals.

“Every society has a responsibility to shield victims from harm,” Chief Inspector Babanawo stressed. “When people share evidence of abuse, they play a critical role in ensuring perpetrators face justice.”

It reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing all individuals who engage in or facilitate domestic abuse, noting that the law provides clear penalties for such acts.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Gender has condemned the alleged domestic assault, calling it “barbaric” and “highly punishable”.