JUSAG Calls for Kwame Danso Court Closure After Violent Attack

The Kwame Danso District Court in the Sene-West District of the Bono-East Region has been temporarily shut down following a violent attack by a mob on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

The Judicial Service Staff Association of Ghana (JUSAG) issued an urgent directive today, December 11, calling on the Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to permanently close the court until adequate security measures are in place. All staff have been directed to stay away from work due to the unsafe environment.

The attack occurred around 8:00 a.m. during the hearing of The Republic v Isaac Kwabena Mintah and Two Others, a case involving charges of unlawful damage, stealing, and assault under the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). JUSAG reports that the mob, angered by the remand of the accused, initially gathered at the Kwame Danso Police Station before moving to the court.

According to JUSAG, the group stormed the courtroom “wielding harmful objects,” disrupting proceedings and forcibly releasing the three accused persons. Court staff were forced to flee, locking themselves in offices while the mob destroyed furniture and attempted to break into the magistrate’s chambers.

“The magistrate and all court staff suffered a traumatic experience and continue to live in fear,” JUSAG stated. Reinforcements from the Atebubu Police Unit were eventually deployed to regain control of the situation.

JUSAG has expressed serious concern over a growing trend of attacks on courts and police stations, citing recent incidents in Tamale and Kukurantumi. The association warns that these acts of lawlessness threaten Ghana’s stability and undermine the rule of law and judicial independence.

The closure highlights the urgent need for improved security for judicial staff and facilities across the country, ensuring the safe and effective administration of justice.

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