Security analyst Adib Saani has described the interdiction of eight police officers involved in a fatal shooting incident at Sefwi Sayerano, in the Juaboso District of the Western North Region, as a step in the right direction.
According to a police statement, the shooting claimed the lives of two people and left three others injured. Following the incident, the Western North Regional Police Command interdicted the officers involved.
The statement issued on Tuesday, 7 July, explained that the interdiction aims to facilitate a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Commenting on the development, Saani indicated that interdicting the officers was the best decision whilst the police probe the matter.
While describing the loss of life as highly unfortunate, he noted that the swift action sends a clear message to the public that the situation is being taken seriously.
However, he was quick to clarify that the interdiction does not imply guilt, but rather serves as a standard procedure to ensure the officers step aside for an unhindered investigation.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Adib Saani also categorically stated that civilians must desist from resisting arrest or interfering with police duties.
He warned that such acts are criminal, and individuals involved can be arrested and prosecuted for obstruction of justice.
“What happened was disturbing and raises critical questions demanding answers. The interdiction of the officers was a step in the right direction, but it does not also make them guilty. The interdiction is to allow for a probe to be conducted. At least, it was important to send a message to the people that something is being done about the incident. The officers have been asked to step aside so that a probe would be conducted without any interference whatsoever. Let me also be categorical in stating that you have no right in obstructing the officers from discharging their lawful duties. That amounts to a criminal offence and you will be arrested and prosecuted.”
He advised anyone facing arrest to cooperate with the police rather than resisting, noting that the best course of action is to remain silent and contact a lawyer.
The security analyst further noted that the incident raises serious concerns regarding the operational preparedness of the police.
He questioned whether the team properly assessed the situation before attempting the arrest, pointing out that the risk of an exchange of fire is always high in drug-related operations.
He explained that under United Nations basic principles, the use of force and firearms must be strictly necessary and proportionate, given its potentially fatal consequences.
He stressed that lethal force should only be deployed as a last resort when less harmful options have failed and an immediate threat exists.
“So it begs the question as to whether the police used less harmful options before firing their weapons or that was their first option. The probe therefore is extremely important and if the police are culpable, they should be dealt with. The Police ought to be circumspect in their activities.”
He added that tactical withdrawal is always a viable option in police operations.
He explained that officers can either call for backup or temporarily withdraw from an operation, emphasizing that it is not necessary to execute an arrest at all costs.
This approach, he argued, should be applied when crowds become violent, allowing the police to enforce the arrest later when the suspects are more vulnerable.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
