Celebrated Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama has announced plans to pursue legal action against members of the “Black Maria,” the Special Operations Team linked to the Inspector-General of Police, following an incident he describes as a serious assault.
Speaking at a press conference in Tamale, Mr Mahama said the encounter left him with significant injuries and forced him to cancel several international engagements. He stressed that the matter would not be overlooked, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable.
Detailing the impact, the artist said the injuries had disrupted both his health and professional schedule, including planned trips to the United Kingdom, Finland, the Netherlands, and South Africa for lectures and work commitments. According to him, he has been unable to eat solid food due to facial injuries, including bruised lips and broken teeth, leaving his activities on hold.
Mr Mahama also raised broader concerns about the conduct of the police unit, alleging a pattern of abuse. He warned that failure to address such incidents could discourage young people from contributing to national development, particularly if they feel unsafe.
He confirmed that legal action is under consideration, describing it as necessary not only for personal justice but also to protect the wider public.
“If this could happen to me, then what about the ordinary person?” he questioned, emphasising the need to speak up for others who may not have a platform.
The allegations have, however, been rejected by the police unit. In its response, the team stated that the incident occurred during a traffic enforcement operation involving a driver who allegedly refused to comply with instructions.
The unit also released a video purportedly showing Mr Mahama’s uncle interacting with officers, but the artist has dismissed the footage, claiming it was manipulated to generate public sympathy.
Mr Mahama, founder of the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art and CEO of Red Clay Studio, maintains that he was assaulted on Saturday morning while travelling through Tamale after returning from the mosque.
