The Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yarkor Donkor, has issued a stern 24-hour ultimatum to the Headmaster of Swedru School of Business (SWESBUS) to produce students captured in a viral video attacking a fellow student.
The directive comes in the wake of a violent clash during the District Schools Athletics Games on Thursday, February 19, which left a student from Obrachire Senior High Technical School hospitalized.
“This is a Criminal Act, Not Indiscipline”
During a high-level meeting at the school today, COP Donkor emphasized that the police are treating the incident as a grave violation of the Criminal Offences Act, rather than a mere school disciplinary issue.
“If somebody has worn your school uniform to conduct himself in such a manner, attacking a fellow human being, it is giving your school a bad name,” COP Donkor told the Headmaster, Justice Kojo Frimpong. “Your twenty-four hours start now.”
She further warned that while the police prefer to cooperate with school authorities to maintain a calm environment, they are prepared to “storm the school” and use standard law enforcement tactics to fish out the suspects if the deadline is not met.
The Incident: A Breakdown of the Agona Swedru Clash
The violence erupted during what was meant to be a showcase of sporting talent at the District Athletics Games. According to eyewitnesses and viral footage:
- The Confrontation: Tensions between students of SWESBUS and Obrachire SHS escalated into a physical disorder.
- The Attack: A student from Obrachire SHS was surrounded by a mob, struck with sticks, and pelted with stones.
- Medical Emergency: The victim was rescued by bystanders and rushed to a nearby health facility for urgent medical attention.
Police Investigation and Public Reaction
The Ghana Police Service confirmed via their official Facebook page that a full investigation is underway. The viral footage, which captures the chaotic scenes and the injured student, is being used as primary evidence to identify the perpetrators.
The incident has sparked a national conversation regarding security at inter-school sporting events. Education stakeholders and local residents are calling for:
- Enhanced Security: Increased police presence at high-tension school competitions.
- Stricter Supervision: Greater accountability from school patrons and physical education instructors.
- Legal Consequences: Ensuring that “student status” does not grant immunity from criminal prosecution.
What Happens Next?
The 24-hour window expires on February 24, 2026. If the suspects are not handed over, the CID has indicated it will deploy personnel to the campus to effect arrests. The police have assured the public that all individuals found culpable will face the full rigours of the law.
