Graphic Communications Staff Member Aliu Mahama Allegedly Assaulted by Nungua Police Following Case of Mistaken Identity

Aliu Mahama, a staff member of the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), was reportedly subjected to severe physical abuse by officers from the Nungua Police Station in Accra on July 13, 2026. The incident occurred while Mr. Mahama was out in his neighborhood to purchase food for his children. According to reports, police officers operating in a vehicle without official markings intercepted him and accused him of being an armed robber. Despite his attempts to clarify his identity and explain his presence in the area, the encounter quickly turned violent, resulting in Mr. Mahama being beaten and handcuffed.

The victim was subsequently detained for several hours, during which he claims the physical abuse continued. It was only after his brother was contacted and arrived at the station that Mr. Mahama was eventually released. A medical examination conducted by Dr. Jacqui Barnes following the incident confirmed the severity of the assault. The medical report detailed significant trauma, including bruising, bleeding, and substantial swelling around his eyes. Dr. Barnes mandated a 24-hour observation period to monitor the victim’s condition following his initial treatment for these injuries.

In the aftermath of the assault, an internal inquiry was initiated to investigate the conduct of the officers involved. During this process, Mr. Mahama successfully identified one of the officers who participated in the beating. However, despite the physical evidence of his injuries and the victim's identification, the officers involved have reportedly denied any wrongdoing. The incident has sparked concerns regarding the use of unmarked vehicles by police units and the protocols governing the identification of suspects during late-night operations.

This case has drawn significant attention due to Mr. Mahama’s role within one of Ghana’s largest media organizations, highlighting broader issues of police accountability and the use of excessive force. As the GCGL community and the public call for justice, the focus remains on whether the Ghana Police Service will take disciplinary action against the officers from the Nungua station. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed to civilians when law enforcement operations lack transparency and proper identification procedures.