Tag: National Investigations Bureau

  • It was not easy being in the grip of the NIB – Dr Agordzo

    It was not easy being in the grip of the NIB – Dr Agordzo

    In a shocking revelation, former Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Agordzo, recently acquitted and discharged over an alleged coup plot, has exposed the harrowing conditions he endured during his detention by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).

    Speaking on JoyNews’ Up-front on Thursday, January 25, Mr. Agordzo described his detention as “inhumane,” shedding light on the uncertainties, lack of external information, and difficulties in receiving visitors.

    The embattled ACP highlighted the arduous process for visitors to reach detainees, often taking six to seven hours, resulting in abandoned attempts.

    Mr. Agordzo questioned the legitimacy of the procedures followed by the NIB, emphasising the subculture practised, limited access to a lawyer, and the Bureau conducting interrogations without legal representation.

    “Anytime somebody is arrested in Ghana, the common thing we say is let the law take its course, due process. Do you know the kind of due process that is taking its course in NIB?” he questioned, expressing concerns over the lack of transparency and accountability in the system.

    Agordzo underscored the need for a more transparent and accountable system within the police service and other security agencies. Despite facing challenges, he affirmed his commitment to standing up for justice, reflecting on his past experiences challenging the system.

    “Well, I have never regretted my speaking out because, at the time I spoke out, I had served the police service for about 32 years,” he emphasised.

    Six individuals implicated in the alleged coup plot have been convicted for conspiracy to commit high treason and committing high treason.

    However, ACP Benjamin Agordzo, Colonel Gameli, and another junior military officer, Corporal Seidu Abubakar, have been acquitted.

    The charges, dating back to April 24, 2021, involved Dr. Frederick Yao Mac-Palm, the late Chief Executive Officer of Citadel Hospital, ACP Dr. Agordzo, and eight others, facing various charges, including conspiracy to high treason, abetment to high treason, and high treason.

  • BNI, police, others at Koforidua BECE centres to check malpractice

    BNI, police, others at Koforidua BECE centres to check malpractice

    Personnel from the Ghana Police Service (GPS), National Investigations Bureau (NIB), along with external invigilators, have been dispatched to address any instances of examination misconduct that might arise at various examination centers during the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the New Juaben South Municipality of the Eastern Region.

    A total of 2,488 candidates from 76 different primary schools are currently participating in the BECE at four examination centers located in Koforidua.

    The Municipal Director of Education, Mustapha Haruna Appiah, emphasized that comprehensive measures have been established to prevent any form of examination misconduct at all the Koforidua centers.

    He stated, “Stringent entry protocols have been put in place. If a search reveals no unauthorized materials, candidates will be allowed into the examination hall. We have also engaged with the students, conducting sessions last week to enlighten them about the consequences of engaging in examination malpractice. We believe they have attentively heeded this advice and will exhibit appropriate behavior.”

    “During our visits, we observed a high level of confidence among the candidates. This indicates that the risk of examination misconduct is low, given our proactive measures. Additionally, the presence of the BNI and other security personnel serves as a deterrent. Students are well aware that any misbehavior will result in legal consequences,” he asserted.

    Isaac Appau Gyasi, the Municipal Chief Executive, expressed commendation for both the involved stakeholders and the candidates themselves, highlighting their exemplary attitude and behavior. He pledged the assembly’s commitment to support academically talented but financially challenged students in their pursuit of further education, contingent on their successful performance.

    “Today’s observations underscore the effectiveness of the teachers’ preparations, and the students’ dedication is evident. This fills me with satisfaction, and I am confident that the outcomes will be favorable for all parties involved.”

    “We want to assure the students that the assembly remains dedicated to their success. Our support will continue, as it has in the past. Our primary desire is for them to excel and excel admirably,” he affirmed.