The Minister for Gender Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has visited the family of the 16-year-old boy who was allegedly tied to a quad bike and dragged along a road at North Legon in Accra.
The visit formed part of efforts by the ministry to assess the welfare needs of the boy and provide support to the family after the incident, which has sparked widespread public concern.
Dr Lartey met the boy and his relatives and assured them of the government’s commitment to protecting the child and supporting his recovery and psychosocial wellbeing.
She also thanked the residents who intervened to rescue the teenager and praised individuals and organisations that supported the family after the incident.
The minister urged parents and caregivers to use non violent forms of discipline, stressing that child abuse should never be treated as a private family matter when the safety of a child is at risk.
She called on the public to remain vigilant and report cases of abuse to the authorities.
As part of the visit, the ministry donated relief items including rice, cooking oil, beans, milk, tinned tomatoes, toiletries, antiseptics and soaps to the family.
A cash donation of GH¢5,000 was also presented to help with the boy’s medical care and other needs.
Dr Lartey said the ministry was taking steps to enrol the family onto the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty programme to provide additional support and improve their living conditions.
She added that the ministry would work with the Madina MP, Francis-Xavier Sosu, and the district assembly to provide a wheelchair for the boy’s sister.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring their welfare.
According to police, the incident happened on 3rd May after the teenager went out to play football with friends.
Investigators said a 60-year-old man, identified as Eric Mante, allegedly confronted the boy, tied him to a quad bike and dragged him along the road near Adonai Church.
Police said the teenager suffered multiple injuries after falling onto the tarred road and being dragged for some distance.
Residents who heard the boy screaming reportedly intervened and stopped the suspect before the victim was taken to hospital for treatment.
Police said the suspect was arrested and later admitted to the act during investigations, claiming he acted out of anger over the boy’s behaviour.
He has since been charged and put before court.
The Accra Regional Police Command has condemned violence against children and urged parents and guardians to adopt lawful and non violent methods of discipline.
