Ibrahim Mohammed, the man who allegedly threatened to shoot and harm public officials in a viral video, has been remanded by an Accra Circuit Court.
Charged with threat of harm, offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace, and publication of false news, Mohammed pleaded not guilty before Mrs. Evelyn Asamoah.
In the video, he allegedly mentioned Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and Minister for the Interior, Mr. Henry Quartey, accusing them of involvement in a police recruitment exercise in the Ashanti Region.
The trial judge ruled: “Considering the account of issuing threats to harm officials, the accused is remanded.”
The court assured that the trial would proceed expeditiously and ordered the prosecution to file disclosures and witness statements by September 24, 2024. The case was adjourned to September 26, 2024.
According to a GNA report, Mohammed’s lawyer, Mr. Francis Xavier Sosu, requested bail, arguing that the charges were misdemeanors. He emphasized that Mohammed was not a flight risk, having voluntarily reported to the police in the company of his lawyer. Sosu added that his client had apologized for his “irresponsible” remarks.
However, Assistant State Attorney Derrick Ackah opposed the bail request, citing public safety concerns. He argued that although Mohammed had shown remorse, the seriousness of the charges warranted his continued detention. Ackah noted that Mohammed initially fled to Kumasi after learning the police were after him, only surrendering after a bounty was placed on his head.
Ackah also urged the court to consider the timing of the threats, which were made two months before general elections, and the potential impact on the country’s peace.
Mohammed was arrested by the Ghana Police Service on September 11, 2024, after the video of his threats went viral. The police had declared him wanted on September 9, 2024.
