The Ghana Police Service has arrested Sibamay Zakaria, the man allegedly captured in a viral video assaulting a detained pastor at the Police headquarters in Accra.
The incident occurred after the pastor was arrested over alleged offensive comments about Prophet Mohammed, a revered figure in Islam.
A video circulating widely on social media showed the pastor in handcuffs when a civilian approached him and allegedly slapped him. The footage triggered public concern over how the assault occurred within a police facility and prompted calls for a thorough investigation.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service confirmed Zakaria’s arrest and said he is currently in custody, where he is assisting investigators with inquiries into the incident.
The Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) has been tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault, including how the suspect gained access to the detained pastor.
The Service said any person found to have played a role in the incident will face the appropriate disciplinary measures.
However, the Police have not disclosed whether other individuals are being investigated or provided further details on the circumstances leading to the alleged assault.
Following the investigations, Zakaria is expected to be arraigned before court for the appropriate legal proceedings.
His arrest and detention do not amount to a finding of guilt, and the allegations against him remain subject to due process and determination by the court.
