Accra: The Ghana Police Service has issued a firm warning to social media content creators who use their platforms to post threatening or criminal content, stating that such actions will no longer be taken lightly. At a press briefing, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Grace Ansah Akrofi expressed growing concern over the misuse of social media to spread fear, misinformation, and violent threats often disguised as harmless 'content.'
According to Ghana Web, DCOP Ansah Akrofi emphasized that any behavior on social media that borders on criminality will be pursued by the police. "If you engage in any act, any behaviour, any conduct, in any shape or form that borders on criminality, the Ghana Police Service will fish you out, will pursue you, will get you arrested and bring you to face the full rigours of the law," she warned. The statement comes after police arrested an individual who appeared in a masked video threatening to kill security personnel. The suspect later attempted to apologize online, claiming the video was meant for content creation.
The Police Service has made it clear that such apologies will not be accepted as excuses for behavior that endangers public safety. DCOP Ansah Akrofi also recalled a similar incident a few months ago, where a group of individuals dressed as bandits posted threatening videos aimed at the Ghanaian public, leading to arrests.
Beyond direct threats, the police have observed a rise in online activities that create unnecessary panic and spread misinformation. In response, the Police Service has increased digital surveillance and online monitoring to ensure safety on Ghana's social media platforms. DCOP Ansah Akrofi urged content creators and users to act responsibly and consider the potential criminal implications of their posts.