Accra, Ghana: The Ghana National Bishops’ Conference has strongly condemned a violent attack on three Indian Catholic missionary priests in the Nkwanta South municipality. The assault, which took place on December 11, left one priest with permanent hearing loss in one ear, sparking widespread outrage across religious and political circles.
Fr. Dieu-Donne, the Director of Communications for the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC), described the attack as "unfortunate and reprehensible," emphasizing the need for legal action against those responsible. The organization expressed its unwavering solidarity with the affected priests and the missionary community, calling for swift justice.
Attack Linked to False Allegations of Theft
According to a statement from the GCBC, the priests—Fr. Robinson Melkis, Fr. Frank Henry Jacob, and Fr. Martin George—were assaulted by a group of youths reportedly affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party. The attackers accused the priests of stealing a bulldozer they had legally rented to construct a formation house in Chaiso, Nkwanta South Parish.
The priests had paid 9,700 Ghana cedis to rent the equipment and were refueling it at a petrol station when the group violently confronted them. Despite providing proof of their lawful transaction, the priests were brutally beaten, leading to severe injuries.
Widespread Condemnation and Police Investigation
The Catholic Diocese of Ghana, alongside the GCBC, has expressed shock and condemnation over the incident. Bishop Gabriel Akwasi emphasized that the priests were on a legitimate mission aimed at benefiting the local community. The attack, perceived by many as having political undertones following Ghana’s recent elections, has drawn criticism from both the Church and political leaders.
A statement from the police assured the public that the priests are being treated as victims in the case. They have neither been arrested nor detained. Law enforcement officials have informed church leaders that efforts are underway to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure they face the full force of the law.
Solidarity and Calls for Justice
The Ghana clergy association has pledged its prayers and support for the injured priests and the broader missionary community. They reaffirmed their commitment to assisting the police in bringing the attackers to justice. The incident has highlighted the risks faced by missionaries in certain regions and the need for stronger protections for religious workers.
This tragic episode serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of those working to serve and uplift communities in Ghana.