The police have officially stated that no pregnant woman was detained during the Democracy Hub protest. Concerning the reported arrest of a pregnant woman, Gloria Vera Louise, the police have clarified that there was no visible indication of her pregnancy at the time of the arrest. It was also noted that she did not disclose her pregnancy to the police during the arrest or subsequent interactions, nor did she communicate this information to the court or her legal representatives.
To verify the claim of the alleged pregnancy, the police proactively arranged for Gloria Vera Louise to undergo comprehensive medical examinations at both the Police Hospital and an independent healthcare facility. The results from both examinations yielded negative findings, indicating that Gloria Vera Louise is not pregnant as alleged.
Per our commitment to transparency and adherence to high ethical and professional standards, the Police Administration has instructed the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB, formerly PIPS) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the prolonged detention of two suspects beyond the 48-hour legal limit before their court appearance. Appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken against those found responsible.
We would like to reaffirm our commitment to upholding democratic freedoms by providing the necessary security for the safe and peaceful exercise of the constitutional right to protest. The Police refute allegations of the use of force during the recent Democracy Hub demonstration and have arrested 54 individuals by due legal process. The Attorney-General’s Office is handling the prosecution of these cases.
Contrary to reports, the Police have clarified that a 12-year-old child, a 68-year-old woman, and a pregnant woman were not among those arrested and detained. The Police urge the public to dismiss these reports. They explained that during the arrest of a 50-year-old woman, Grace Asantewaa, who was misrepresented as a 68-year-old, it was discovered that she had a child with her. To prevent separation, the child was allowed to accompany her to the Police Station.
At the Police Station, the child was provided with sustenance, and for the child’s welfare, Grace Asantewaa was granted a Police enquiry bail and allowed to return home with the child.
Grace Asantewaa has been charged with the offence of endangering a child by bringing her to the demonstration grounds, contravening section 71 of the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29).
The Police also advised the public to be cautious about involving children in activities that could pose a threat to their safety.”
