Police warn content creators against criminal acts disguised as online content

The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to social media content creators whose activities cross into criminal conduct, revealing that at least one individual has already been arrested for posting a masked video threatening to kill security personnel.

Speaking at a press briefing, Deputy Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah Akrofi said the Police Service is becoming increasingly alarmed by the misuse of social media platforms to spread fear, violent threats, and misinformation under the guise of entertainment or content creation.

According to her, the growing trend poses a serious threat to public safety and national security and will not be tolerated by law enforcement authorities.

“If you engage in any act, any behaviour, any conduct, in any shape or form that borders on criminality, the Ghana Police Service will fish you out, will pursue you, will get you arrested and bring you to face the full rigours of the law,” DCOP Ansah Akrofi warned.

She disclosed that police recently tracked down and arrested a suspect who appeared in a viral masked video threatening to kill police and military personnel.

Following his arrest, the suspect reportedly returned to social media to issue what appeared to be an apology, claiming the video was intended merely for content creation purposes.

However, the Police Service stressed that such explanations do not excuse behaviour that promotes violence, threatens lives, or creates fear within the public space.

DCOP Ansah Akrofi also referred to another incident that occurred a few months earlier in which a group of individuals dressed as armed bandits posted threatening videos directed at the Ghanaian public.

She confirmed that police investigations in that case also led to multiple arrests.

The Ghana Police Service has therefore cautioned content creators, influencers, and social media users to act responsibly online and avoid content that could incite violence, spread panic, or violate the laws of the country.

Police say they remain committed to monitoring criminal activities conducted through digital platforms and will continue to take firm action against individuals who misuse social media for unlawful purposes.