A shocking viral video has emerged showing a police officer physically assaulting an alleged thief with a gun during a chaotic scene at Adum Market in Kumasi, sparking public outrage and renewed scrutiny over police conduct in Ghana.

The confrontation, which took place just days after a devastating fire gutted parts of the Adum trading area, has reignited national conversations around police brutality, abuse of power, and citizens' rights.

The Viral Confrontation: What Happened?

In the now-viral footage, a man—allegedly caught stealing a calculator—is seen handcuffed to a plainclothes officer dressed in a yellow shirt. Despite being restrained, the suspect appears to resist arrest, prompting multiple slaps from both the officer and some bystanders, believed to include the item’s owner.

Moments later, tensions escalate when the officer draws his handgun and strikes the suspect with it, sparking panic and audible shock among onlookers.

“This situation didn’t call for that level of force,” one witness said.

Ghana Insights Statement:

We urge the Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) to provide a swift and transparent update on this troubling incident. Accountability, proper training, and adherence to due process are non-negotiable pillars of civil policing in any democracy.

Incident Summary:

• Date: April 6, 2025
• Location: Adum Market, Kumasi
• Alleged Crime: Theft of a calculator
• Offending Officer: Yet to be identified by authorities
• Current Status: No official statement from the Ghana Police Service as of reporting time

Expert Insight: When Does Use of Force Become Abuse?

According to human rights lawyer Kwame Ntiamoah, Ghana's laws clearly prohibit excessive use of force on suspects who pose no imminent threat.

“Even if guilty, suspects are entitled to dignity and due process. Slapping someone with a weapon while they’re handcuffed is both unlawful and unethical.”