The Ghana Police Service has issued an apology to the public for any inconvenience caused during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest, particularly to commuters who were obstructed by the protesters’ roadblock on Saturday.
“The police would also like to apologise to members of the public who were inconvenienced in one way or another, especially those who were caught up in the vehicular holdups during the demonstration,” the police said in a statement issued on September 23.
The demonstrators had blocked the road after the Ghana Police Service set up barriers along the route leading to the Jubilee House in an attempt to prevent them from advancing and emphasising their demands.
The demonstrators had blocked the road after the Ghana Police Service set up barriers along the route leading to the Jubilee House in an attempt to prevent them from advancing and emphasising their demands.
Despite the police presence, the protesters chose not to disperse. Instead, they waited and sat on the streets, intending to identify an alternative route. This led to significant traffic congestion on the road.
In an unexpected twist, a police officer, recognizing the traffic gridlock caused by the protest, took a seat in the middle of the road and appealed to the demonstrators to clear a path for the flow of traffic.
However, the protesters remained steadfast and declined to comply, insisting that it wouldn’t be feasible.
The demonstration eventually concluded, and the roads were reopened to facilitate smooth vehicular traffic movement.
The police also expressed their intention to arrange a debriefing meeting with the organisers, aiming to promote more productive engagement in the future.
“We have a track record of providing security for demonstrations in the past and would continue to do so within the confines of the law.
“We, therefore, urge the general public to continue to partner with us, as we work towards deepening our democratic credentials and maintaining peace and security in our beloved country,” said the police.