NGO accuses security agencies of arbitrariness

The Peace Seekers International, an NGO on Monday called on security personnel to exhibit tolerance and professionalism in their handling of suspected criminals in order not to violate the human rights of citizens.

It said the security agencies had over the years been acting arbitrarily against civilians for suspected crimes in a way that undermined the rule of law.

"The avalanche of military and police brutalities against citizens of this dear nation should be treated with the concern it deserves and unreservedly condemned," a statement signed by Mr. Abubakar Alhassan Daa Naa, National Co-ordinator of the organisation said.

The statement said it was disturbing that in an era of constitutional rule, security personnel should be taking the law into their own hands.

It said, Peace Seekers supported President Kufuor's call for an enquiry into the various cases of military and police brutalities reported in the media.

The statement said personal vendettas and political motives were the underlying reasons for the brutalities.

It condemned the brutal acts on Alhaji M. B. Seidu, National Organiser of the Egle Party and his family and the unwarranted search of the palace of the Chief of Sefwi Wiawso, saying whatever their crime the constitutional rights of victims of such brutalities must be protected.