The Ghana Police Service has arrested the man seen in a viral video administering a substance suspected to be a cigarette to a child.
In a statement, the Police said the suspect, Samuel Obeng Acheampong, was arrested on Saturday, November 22, 2025, through an intelligence-led operation.
READ ALSO: Police investigate viral video of man giving cigarette to child
According to the police, the suspect admitted to the offence during interrogation and indicated that the incident occurred about five (5) years ago.
The statement added, “The suspect is in custody, assisting the investigation, and will be put before the court.
The Police Service remains committed to ensuring the safety of children and would like to caution the public against acts that expose children to harm, since perpetrators will be pursued and arrested to face the full rigours of the law.”
Earlier, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) condemned the viral video in which a group of men are seen forcing a child to smoke cigarette.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 21, the Ministry described the act as “abusive and a clear violation of the child’s rights and dignity.”
According to the Ministry, the conduct by the men is punishable by law and contravenes provisions of the Children’s Act, 1998 (Act 560), which mandates every child protection from physical, psychological, and moral harm.
