GhArticles.com Every News in Detail
The Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has ordered the immediate and temporary shutdown of the Kwame Danso District Court in the Bono East Region after a violent mob stormed the facility, disrupted proceedings, and forcibly freed suspects on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
A directive issued on Friday, December 12, described the closure as necessary to address serious security concerns arising from the attack. According to an official correspondence from the Judicial Service, the instruction was to close the court from December 12 until further notice to safeguard judicial officers, staff, and all court users.
The incident unfolded around 8:00 a.m. while the court was hearing The Republic v. Isaac Kwabena Mintah & Two Others, a case involving charges of unlawful damage, stealing, and assault under the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) said tensions escalated after word spread that the accused persons had been remanded.
A large mob reportedly gathered first at the Kwame Danso Police Station before marching to the court premises. Armed with harmful objects, they stormed the courtroom, disrupted proceedings, and caused court staff, lawyers, and litigants to flee for safety. The group then forcibly released the accused persons from custody.
JUSAG stated that court staff were forced to lock themselves inside offices as the mob destroyed furniture, office equipment, and other property. The attackers also attempted to force entry into the magistrate’s chambers, prompting urgent calls for additional security support.
The Judicial Service says the court will remain closed until adequate safety measures are restored and the environment is deemed secure for judicial work to continue.
