The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has received a strongly written open letter from the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan demanding quick action and justice in the case of three Catholic priests who were allegedly beaten earlier this month in Nkwanta, Oti Region.Three Indian Catholic priests—Frs. Robinson Melkis, Martin George, and Henry Jacob of the Franciscan Capuchin Order—were implicated in the alleged December 11, 2024, incident.

The priests, who were assigned to St. Michael Parish in Kpassa, were viciously beaten at a gas station while traveling to Chaiso to clear a plot of land for the building of a Formation House.

Bishop Gabriel A. A. Mante signed the letter, in which the Diocese thanked the IGP for its prompt action in securing medical care for Fr. Henry Jacob, one of the victims who suffered a hearing loss in his left ear due to the assault.

After receiving care at the Accra Police Hospital, Fr. Jacob was sent to the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where a broken left eardrum was discovered. Since then, he has gone back to India for additional medical treatment.


The Diocese expressed annoyance at the lack of arrests in spite of the early response, even though there was unmistakable video proof of the assault.

"We are appalled that to date, despite the clear video evidence, the executors of the assault are still walking free with no arrests made," the letter reads.

Regarding how the Ghana Police Service handled the issue, the Diocese brought up a number of important points:

1. Investigative Capabilities: Why has the Police Service, known for its efficiency in solving complex crimes, not acted on this straightforward case?

2. Bias Concerns: Does the nationality of the victims—Indian rather than Ghanaian—account for the lack of progress in the case?

3. Delayed Action: Has the Police Service, under the leadership of the IGP, abandoned the pursuit of justice for these priests?

The letter urged the IGP to take immediate action, citing moral and scriptural requirements. The passage emphasizes the need for prompt arrests and prosecution of the offenders, saying, "Our brothers' blood is crying to God from the ground" (Genesis 4:10).

The Diocese also issued a warning about potential diplomatic repercussions, pointing out that if the issue is not resolved, there could be strained ties between Ghana and India.

"We stand to be corrected if the Ghana Police Service...is not aware of the disgraceful and possible sour relationships that could develop between India and Ghana governments," the letter reads.

Violence after elections

Beyond this particular instance, the Diocese criticized Ghana's post-election violence in general and urged governments to put in place safeguards against similar assaults.


"This canker seems to be unfortunately becoming a disgraceful unwritten law in Ghana," the letter stated.

The Diocese expressed hope for a fair settlement and extended prayers for the victims, their families, and the entire Catholic community in Ghana.

The Ghana Police Service was urged by the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan to maintain its stellar reputation for efficient law enforcement and make sure that those responsible for this horrible murder are held accountable.