“There Is No law Preventing A Person From Recording Police Activity” - Lom Nuku Ahlijah

Legal expert Lom Nuku Ahlijah, has outlined the legal boundaries governing arrests in Ghana, following public confusion sparked by the viral Showboy arrest video.

Speaking on Culture Daily, Ahlijah clarified that the police are legally empowered to arrest individuals without a warrant in certain situations, including when an offence is committed in the presence of an officer or when a suspect is found in a public space.

However, he emphasised that arrests conducted within private premises, such as homes or offices, are subject to stricter legal requirements.

“Your home is protected by law,” he explained. “Unless you grant permission, or there are clear emergency circumstances, the police generally require a warrant to enter and arrest someone inside their residence.”

Ahlijah also addressed questions surrounding resistance to arrest, stating that while citizens may question the basis of an arrest or request documentation, physically resisting law enforcement could worsen the situation.

“If officers identify themselves as police, the safest option is compliance followed by legal redress,” he said, noting that unlawful arrests can later be challenged in court or through formal complaints to the Police Professional Standards Bureau.

On the issue of filming police activity, Ahlijah dismissed claims that officers can legally stop citizens from recording arrests in non-restricted areas.

“There is no law preventing a person from recording police activity in their home or in public spaces,” he stated. “Transparency protects both citizens and officers.”

He further revealed that individuals who believe their rights have been violated can sue the Ghana Police Service or pursue disciplinary action against specific officers involved.

The discussion has contributed to a broader national conversation on law enforcement conduct, civil liberties and the need for public education on constitutional rights in Ghana.