Adaklu District Police Commander Warns of 25-Year Jail Terms for Rape and Defilement During Community Health Forum

Madam Esther Buakuma, the Adaklu District Police Commander, has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the severe legal consequences of sexual offenses. Speaking at a community engagement in Adaklu Waya, she disclosed that individuals convicted of rape face prison sentences ranging from five to 25 years under Section 97 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960. Furthermore, she clarified that sexual intercourse with girls under the age of 16 constitutes defilement, a felony that carries a specific penalty of seven to 25 years in prison. This warning was issued as part of a broader campaign to curb gender-based violence (GBV) and protect the health and safety of vulnerable members of society.

During the event, held at the Adaklu Waya animal market, Commander Buakuma noted that sexual offenders are not restricted to any specific social class or profession. She revealed that perpetrators often come from various backgrounds, including educators and even members of law enforcement, emphasizing that no one is immune to prosecution. The Commander identified several contributing factors to the prevalence of domestic and gender-based violence, citing alcoholism, poverty, and a lack of self-awareness or neglect as primary triggers. She urged men to treat their partners with dignity and respect, asserting that personal frustrations do not justify criminal behavior.

The sensitization program was organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) with a specific focus on promoting adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of violence. The initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), seeks to educate rural communities on reproductive rights and legal protections. By bringing these discussions to public spaces like local markets, the NCCE and its partners aim to break the silence surrounding sexual crimes and encourage victims and witnesses to report incidents to the authorities without fear of stigmatization.

This outreach effort underscores the ongoing collaborative work between Ghanaian security services and civic organizations to address systemic issues affecting women and children. As the Adaklu District continues to prioritize public safety and health, the police commander's direct engagement serves as both a deterrent and an educational tool. The success of such programs relies on active community participation and the willingness of residents to reject harmful social norms, ultimately fostering a safer environment where the rights and physical well-being of all citizens are rigorously protected.