Kumasi High Court Remands 14 in Connection with Violent Election Day Attacks in Damongo

A Kumasi High Court has remanded 14 individuals into prison custody for their alleged involvement in violent disturbances during Election Day in Damongo, Savannah Region.

Of the 16 suspects brought before the court, 14 were remanded, while two minors were discharged.

The violence erupted due to delays in announcing election results, which led to the death of one person and significant damage to the Electoral Commission (EC) office.

Angry protesters reportedly stormed the Damongo Municipal Collation Center, setting the EC office on fire, causing extensive destruction.

Due to concerns over security in the area, the case was transferred from the Savannah Region to the Kumasi High Court for further proceedings.

The accused face nine charges, including unlawful damage, assault, causing harm, and obstructing electoral officers in the performance of their duties.

The State Attorney requested a deferral of the plea to allow additional time for investigations.

Defense counsel, however, called for the release of their clients, highlighting that two of the accused are minors. The court subsequently ordered the release of the minors into the care of a responsible guardian, Alhaji Imoro Seidu, who was required to leave his Ghana Card with the Court Registrar.

The court set December 19, 2024, for the next hearing, where pleas will be taken. The remaining accused individuals were remanded in prison custody as investigations continue.