Director of Strategy, Research, and Communication at the OSP, Samuel Appiah Darko
The Director of Strategy, Research, and Communication at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Samuel Appiah Darko, has warned that foot soldiers or supporters who interfere with law enforcement officers attempting to arrest politicians could face charges of obstruction of justice.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Law on April 13, Appiah Darko explained that obstructing an arrest, whether by the person being arrested or bystanders, is a criminal offense.
“If foot soldiers or sympathizers try to block law enforcement officers from arresting someone, they can be charged with obstruction of justice,” he said.
He explained that under the OSP Act, this offence carries a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years in prison.
He further clarified that resisting arrest itself is a separate offence, punishable by a fine or a minimum one-year jail term, depending on the circumstances.
This, he noted, applies not only to the individual targeted for arrest but also to anyone impeding law enforcement, including friends, relatives, or political supporters.
Appiah Darko also addressed the misconception that only uniformed police officers can make arrests.
He noted that agencies like the OSP, the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), and intelligence agencies have legal authority to effect arrests, even without wearing police uniforms.
“The term ‘police powers’ extends beyond uniformed officers,” he said, emphasizing that these institutions operate under constitutional or parliamentary authority.
He urged the public to avoid interfering with lawful arrests to prevent facing serious legal consequences.
GA