The Ghana Police Service has arrested a man seen in a viral video forcing a young child to smoke what appears to be a cigarette.
The suspect, identified as Samuel Obeng Acheampong, was apprehended on Sunday, November 22, 2025, in an intelligence-led operation. The arrest followed a referral by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for immediate action.
According to a statement from Chief Inspector Brigitte Babanawo, Public Relations Officer for the CID, Acheampong admitted during questioning to the act, claiming it occurred approximately five years ago.
The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection earlier condemned the incident, describing it as both abusive and illegal. The Ministry emphasized that exposing a child to harmful substances violates the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), which protects children from physical, emotional, and moral harm.
The Ministry also noted that such acts undermine national efforts under the Early Childhood Care and Development Policy, which promotes safe and nurturing environments for young children.
The CID reminded the public that any action endangering a child’s welfare is punishable under Ghanaian law. Samuel Obeng Acheampong remains in custody, assisting investigators, and will be presented before the court.
