Three Indian Catholic priests based in Kpassa, Oti Region, were violently attacked by a mob at a fuel station in Nkwanta on Wednesday, December 11, 2024. The priests, members of the Capuchin Friars and engaged in missionary activities in Ghana since 2005, were Father Robinson Melkis, Father Frank Henry Jacob, and Father Martin George.
Incident Details
The priests were at the station to refuel a bulldozer hired from the Nkwanta-South Municipal Assembly for constructing a Formation House project for seminarians. They were accompanied by the Municipal Engineer and the Town and Country Planning Officer, Samuel Worlanyo Asugbey.
However, a mob accused them of attempting to steal the equipment and assaulted them for 30 minutes until Ghana Immigration Service officers intervened. Father Frank Henry Jacob sustained severe injuries, including hearing loss, and was referred to Yendi Hospital for treatment.
The attackers reported to the police, claiming the priests were stealing municipal equipment, leading to their arrest and detention. They were later granted bail following the intervention of the Vicar-General of the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan, Monsignor Joseph Kofi Nsiah.
NDC Apology
In response, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) branch in Nkwanta-South issued an apology. Constituency Secretary Prince Succeed Fiagadzi expressed regret over the incident, describing the attack as “unacceptable.”
“Our selfless dedication to serving humanity and preaching the message of love and compassion deserves utmost respect and gratitude,” the NDC statement read.
Investigations into the assault and subsequent arrest are ongoing. Meanwhile, the priests have received support and assurances from local Catholic leadership and community members.
