The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to social media content creators against engaging in acts that amount to criminal conduct, revealing that at least one individual has already been arrested for posting a video threatening security personnel.
Speaking at a press briefing, Grace Ansah Akrofi, a Deputy Commissioner of Police, said the Service is increasingly concerned about the misuse of social media platforms to spread fear, misinformation and violent threats under the guise of content creation.
“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,” DCOP Ansah Akrofi warned.
According to her, police recently tracked down and arrested a suspect who appeared in a masked video threatening to kill security personnel.
She explained that the individual later returned online with what appeared to be an apology, claiming the video was intended only for content creation purposes. However, the Police Service maintained that such explanations do not excuse actions capable of threatening public safety and security.
DCOP Ansah Akrofi also referred to another incident that occurred several months ago in which a group of individuals dressed as bandits allegedly posted threatening videos directed at the Ghanaian public.
She disclosed that arrests were made in connection with that incident as well.
Beyond direct threats, the Police Service said it has observed a growing trend of online activities that create panic within communities and contribute to the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
According to DCOP Ansah Akrofi, the Police Service has intensified digital surveillance and online patrols as part of efforts to prevent social media platforms from being used for criminal activities.
She further urged content creators and social media users to act responsibly and remain mindful of the legal consequences of producing or sharing content that crosses into criminal conduct.
