GAF Vows Transparency After Soldier’s Assault on Civilians at Burma Camp — Pledges No Cover-Up
GAF Promises Accountability After Soldier’s Assault at Burma Camp
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has assured the public that it will not protect or shield any soldier implicated in the assault of civilians at Burma Camp in Accra. The assurance follows the arrest of Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Mensah Williams of the Ghana Air Force, who was filmed physically attacking two civilians inside a pharmacy on the military base.
According to a statement signed by *Captain (Ghana Navy) Veronica Adzo Arhin, Acting Director of Public Relations for the GAF, the suspect was taken into custody at dawn on **Thursday, October 30, 2025, by the *Ghana Military Police (GMP).
“The Armed Forces assures the general public that it will not condone any acts of assault on civilians and will not shield any soldier engaged in such acts,” the statement read.
The viral video, which has been widely circulated on social media, shows the uniformed officer assaulting a pharmacist and a female customer inside a pharmacy situated within Burma Camp. The disturbing footage sparked strong public outrage, with many Ghanaians condemning the use of violence by a member of the armed forces against unarmed civilians.
GAF confirmed that the victims have since received medical treatment and are assisting investigators with statements. Preliminary findings indicate that WO1 Williams is attached to the Office of the Chief of Staff at the Air Force Base.
Unverified reports suggest that the female victim may be related to a senior military officer, although the GAF has not confirmed this claim.
The GAF stated that disciplinary procedures would be applied “without fear or favour,” reaffirming its commitment to maintaining professional standards within the military. Both the Ghana Military Police and the Cantonments Police are jointly investigating the case.
The Armed Forces emphasized that maintaining discipline and accountability is essential to preserving public confidence in the military. The outcome of the investigations, the statement said, will determine the next line of administrative and criminal actions.
The incident has reignited public debate on military accountability and civilian protection in Ghana. While the armed forces are generally respected for their professionalism, occasional reports of assaults involving military personnel have raised questions about discipline, oversight, and the rule of law.
Ghana’s democratic stability depends partly on public confidence in state institutions, including the military — one of the most trusted organs of government. Addressing incidents like this transparently, experts say, is vital to reinforcing the Armed Forces’ reputation as a disciplined and people-centered institution.
Across Africa, similar cases of military misconduct have sparked calls for reform. Ghana’s proactive response could therefore serve as a regional example of institutional integrity and civilian oversight.
This latest case follows growing scrutiny over interactions between soldiers and civilians. Earlier this year, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) called for justice after reports of military personnel allegedly assaulting civilians during operations at Burma Camp.
In 2023, a separate incident in Ashaiman — following the killing of a soldier — led to widespread reports of military brutality, prompting condemnations from human-rights groups and Parliament.
The GAF has since intensified its internal education and disciplinary measures, emphasizing respect for civilians and adherence to lawful procedures.
Analysts note that how the Armed Forces handle this case could shape public perceptions of its commitment to justice and human rights. A transparent, fair, and decisive process could restore confidence and send a strong message against abuse of power within security institutions.
On the other hand, any perceived delay or leniency could reignite public skepticism about accountability in Ghana’s armed services.
The Ghana Armed Forces’ assurance that it will not shield the soldier involved in the Burma Camp assault marks a critical moment for military accountability. As investigations continue, the public’s attention remains fixed on whether justice will be delivered swiftly and fairly — a test of both discipline within the ranks and trust between the military and the Ghanaian people.
