Suspected Thief Climbs Tree to Escape Mob at 37 Military Hospital

A dramatic incident occurred near the 37 Military Hospital on Sunday, August 17, when a suspected thief climbed a tall tree to evade an angry mob after allegedly stealing billboard banners.

Eyewitnesses said the alarm went off as the man attempted to cut down banners near the 37 traffic light, prompting a crowd to pursue him. In a desperate attempt to avoid being lynched, he scaled a tree between the hospital and the 37 lorry terminal, where he remained for hours.

Police later arrived at the scene, calmed the crowd, and safely took the suspect into custody.

While theft is punishable under Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, police emphasized that mob justice is also a crime. The Ghana Police Service has consistently warned the public against such actions, noting that individuals who engage in mob attacks could face charges ranging from assault to murder if the suspect dies.

Authorities reiterated that under the 1992 Constitution, every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty, urging citizens to hand suspects over to the police for proper investigation rather than resorting to violence.

The case highlights the continuing problem of mob justice in Ghana and the urgent need to strengthen public confidence in the justice system.