The Director of Strategy, Research, and Communication at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Samuel Appiah Darko, has warned that resisting arrest—whether lawful or not—could result in obstruction of justice, a serious criminal offense under Ghanaian law.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Law on Sunday, April 13, Mr. Appiah Darko emphasized that individuals who interfere with or resist arrest procedures risk complicating their legal situation and may face additional charges with significant penalties.
He stated, “If you try to resist an arrest, that in itself is a criminal offense. You could face a fine or a minimum jail term of one year, depending on the circumstances. Under the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, obstruction of justice attracts a minimum of two years and a maximum of four years imprisonment.”
He further clarified that obstruction of justice doesn’t only apply to the person being arrested.
Bystanders, relatives, friends, or political supporters who impede law enforcement in any way could also face prosecution.
