BY Nadia Ntiamoah
The Ghana Police Service has intensified a nationwide manhunt for a man captured in a viral social media video allegedly forcing a young child to smoke what appears to be a cigarette.
The disturbing footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, shows the unidentified man placing the substance in the child’s mouth while laughing, prompting renewed concerns over child exploitation and abuse in the digital age.
According to a statement issued by the Police on Friday, November 21, investigators are working to trace both the man and the victim.
Authorities say efforts are underway to analyse the video, identify the location, and gather leads from the public.
The Police have also assured the public that protecting the child’s safety is a top priority. Residents with any information regarding the suspect’s identity or whereabouts have been urged to report immediately to the nearest police station.
Reacting to the latest case, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection strongly condemned the act, describing it as a blatant violation of the child’s rights and dignity.
In a press release also dated November 21, the Ministry labelled the incident an act of child endangerment and reminded caregivers that exposing minors to harmful substances—whether alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs—is illegal and morally unacceptable.
The Ministry referenced the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), which mandates the protection of every child from physical, psychological, and moral harm.
Officials noted that such acts also undermine Ghana’s Early Childhood Care and Development Policy, which prioritises providing safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate environments for minors.
The Ministry stressed that offenders found culpable face severe legal consequences.
