The police have confirmed the arrest of Dawuda Sumaila, a tanker driver’s mate, following the circulation of a disturbing video showing a brutal machete assault on a young man beside a fuel tanker.
The video, which quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparked widespread public outrage and demands for swift justice.
According to a statement released by the Ghana Police Service, Sumaila was apprehended on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, during an intelligence-led operation.
He is currently in police custody and is said to be cooperating with investigators as they delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The assault reportedly occurred on Friday, April 4, 2025, in Anyinam, a community along the Accra to Kumasi Highway in the Eastern Region.
In the now-viral footage, Sumaila is seen wielding a machete and repeatedly attacking a defenseless young man, prompting fears over rising levels of violence and impunity in public spaces.
Although the motive behind the attack has not been officially disclosed, sources close to the investigation suggest it may have stemmed from a dispute between the suspect and the victim over tanker-related operations or a personal disagreement.
The video’s graphic nature triggered a flurry of condemnation from civil society groups, human rights advocates, and the general public, with many urging the police to act decisively.
The incident reignited conversations around the safety of roadside workers, enforcement of weapon laws, and the rising culture of recording violence rather than intervening.
Police officials have assured the public that the case will be treated with the seriousness it deserves.
“We are committed to ensuring justice is served. The suspect is assisting with investigations, and we will provide updates as the case progresses,” the statement noted.
Meanwhile, efforts are being made to locate and identify the victim of the assault, who was not immediately available for questioning after the video surfaced.
The police have appealed to the public for any information that could assist in identifying him or additional witnesses to the incident.
