Google search engine

The arrest of Priscila Toboli, a diabetic, asthmatic, and glaucoma patient, during the final day of the anti-Galamsey protests has raised serious concerns after her family reported she had been denied access to medical care and communication while in police custody.

Priscila was arrested while live-streaming the protest on TikTok at the 37 Military Hospital intersection on Sunday. Her family, upon learning of her arrest, began searching for her across multiple police stations in Accra. Eventually, they located her at the Kaneshie Police Station that evening but were denied any form of access or communication with her.

According to Priscila’s brother, who has been at the forefront of the family’s efforts to contact her, officers at Kaneshie cited strict instructions from the Greater Accra Regional Command, which prohibited any visitation or legal counsel for detainees associated with the protest.

“We were told that no family member or lawyer could have access to her because of orders from the regional command. We just wanted to check on her health and find out how we could assist,” her brother explained in an interview.

Health Concerns Escalate

Priscila’s family, already concerned due to her chronic health issues, was later contacted by an officer identified as Inspector Ken, who informed them that Priscila’s health had deteriorated. However, when the family arrived at the National Police Headquarters as instructed, they were once again denied entry, with no response from the officer who had called them.

Priscila, who suffers from diabetes, asthma, and glaucoma, is at high risk of complications, particularly in stressful environments such as police custody. Her family is especially worried about her asthma and blood pressure, which they say can be triggered at any time.

“The call we received was alarming. They said she wasn’t fine, but when we arrived, no one would let us in or update us on her condition. Her health is fragile, and we need to know if she’s okay,” her brother said.

Legal Experts Speak Out

Human rights lawyer Christian Malm Hesse condemned the treatment of Priscila Toboli, describing it as a violation of her human rights. He expressed concern over the lack of access to medical care and communication, stating that such actions undermine the rule of law in Ghana.

“This is a clear violation of her basic human rights. To deny an individual with serious health conditions access to care or communication is not only unacceptable but also a sad day for democracy in Ghana,” Hesse said. He called for immediate transparency in Priscila’s case and urged the authorities to ensure that her legal and health rights are respected.

Questions About Detainee Treatment

The treatment meted out to Priscila, along with others arrested during the protests, has raised significant concerns about detainee welfare and access to medical care while in custody.

The anti-Galamsey protests, aimed at drawing attention to the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, have seen dozens of arrests over the past three days, as security forces sought to control the demonstrations across Accra.

Priscila’s case highlights broader questions about the rights of detainees, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, and whether adequate care is being provided while they remain in custody. The family is urging authorities to allow them access to Priscila or provide transparent information about her condition.

As the protests wind down, the case of Priscila Toboli continues to draw attention and calls for better oversight in handling vulnerable individuals in police custody. The family remains hopeful for a resolution but is growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of communication from the authorities.

This story is developing, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Read also:

Some arrested Democracy Hub protesters remanded

By Emmanuel Samani