Suhuyini urges review of National Security arrest approach

Hamza Suhuyini, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) communications team, has called for a review of the operational methods used by national security operatives when effecting arrests, raising concerns over public safety and trust.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Wednesday, August 13, he commended President John Dramani Mahama for prioritising the rule of law over political considerations but stressed that some security practices require urgent scrutiny.

“We are dealing with a president who prioritises the rule of law over mere partisanship, and that should give us hope. But when it comes to how national security operatives go about their operational mechanisms and carry out arrests, it is something we all must look at,” he said.

Mr. Suhuyini expressed concern over aggressive tactics, including breaking into homes at midnight, which he said could undermine public confidence and be exploited by criminals posing as security personnel.

“It didn’t start with this regime; it happened under the past NPP government. This government has promised arrests, but we need to look at the manner of arrest, especially breaking people’s homes at midnight. I cannot in all honesty defend that on any platform.

“We need to look at the modus operandi of national security when it comes to arrests, because if care is not taken, criminals will take advantage of that,” he added.

His comments come after the reported abduction of Wontumi TV presenter Akyemkwaa Nana Kofi Asare on Tuesday, August 12, in Ejisu Krapa, Ashanti Region. Eyewitnesses said unidentified armed men in unmarked vehicles fired warning shots before forcibly taking the journalist away without identifying themselves or explaining their intentions. The suspects then sped off from the scene.

The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, and the presenter’s whereabouts are yet to be confirmed.

Kwame Adom Appiah, a lawyer representing Wontumi Multimedia, said two witnesses reported hearing gunshots as Akyemkwaa attempted to flee. “His effort to run away from them was for his safety,” he explained.