Keta: The late Jerry Kpesenu, also known as Maya, who was allegedly beaten to death while in police custody in Keta, Volta region, will be laid to rest on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The funeral arrangements include a wake-keeping on Friday, October 17, 2025, followed by a burial service at Norlivime School Park in Dzelukope, a suburb of Keta.
According to Ghana News Agency, Jerry Kpesenu's death has sparked controversy and outrage, with reports indicating that police officers allegedly beat him to death. This incident has led to demands for justice from the concerned youth of Keta, who earlier in 2024 staged protests calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Kpesenu's death.
The alleged incident has raised questions about police conduct and the need for accountability. Mr. William Fosman Doe, the Convener of the group, held a press conference at Keta-Deviame in 2024, calling for swift action against the officers allegedly involved in the assault that led to Kpesenu's death. The youth demanded that former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. Akuffo Dampare establish a five-member committee, including the deceased's family and a youth representative, to aid in the investigation. They also requested an independent autopsy to determine the cause of death.
The youth urged the IGP to interdict the officers involved in the alleged murder to enable a thorough investigation. They gave the IGP a seven-day ultimatum to address their grievances and take charge of the funeral arrangements, but Ghana News Agency reports that these calls went unheeded.
Kpesenu was reportedly tortured and arrested by Keta Police on June 6, 2024, at his residence after a complaint was lodged against him for confiscating tools from an electrician who came to install an air conditioner in a tenant's room without prior notification. He was later pronounced dead in police custody.
The youth have organized demonstrations, expressing their grievances over what they claim was a brutal murder. Mr. Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpe, the Member of Parliament for the Keta Constituency, petitioned the then IGP for an investigation, but no progress has been reported. Accusations have been made that the police hierarchy transferred the accused officers to other areas.
As demands for an investigation continue, residents are also calling for the deceased's autopsy report. The community in Keta is increasingly aware of the incident's implications, with some residents lamenting the delay in seeking justice. They appeal to the current government and the new IGP, COP Christian Tetteh Yohunu, to take charge of the case and ensure justice is served.
The incident has highlighted the relationship between law enforcement and the Keta community, with calls for a thorough investigation into Kpesenu's death being treated with urgency. Jerry Kpesenu was 43 years old.