By: Akua Oteng Amponsah
The Ghana Police Service has begun probing a viral video in which a man is seen handing what is believed to be a cigarette to a child.
Officials say they are “making every effort to identify and arrest the suspect” while also ensuring the child’s safety and wellbeing.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information on the individual or the child is encouraged to report to the nearest police station.
The incident has also drawn condemnation from the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. The Ministry stressed the shared duty of parents, guardians, caregivers, and the wider public to protect minors from harm.
In a press release dated Friday, November 21, the Ministry labeled the act “a clear case of child endangerment,” emphasising that exposing children to dangerous substances is abusive and violates their dignity and fundamental rights. The statement also noted that such behaviour is punishable by law.
The Ministry further explained that the act breaches the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), which requires safeguarding children from physical, emotional, and moral harm.
It also runs contrary to the goals of the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy, which aims to ensure that young children grow in secure and supportive environments.
