Investigations Complete in Ofankor Domestic Violence Case, Suspect Charged and Case Now Before Court
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has informed Parliament that investigations into the high-profile domestic violence case involving 32-year-old Harriet Amuzu of Ofankor have been completed, with the suspect formally charged and the matter now before the courts.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 17, 2026. The Minister gave the update when she appeared before the House to respond to questions about the status of the case, which gained widespread public attention after Harriet publicly recounted the alleged violent assault by her estranged husband.
Harriet claimed the incident happened after her husband, John Odartey Lamptey, called her on November 15, saying their youngest child was seriously ill. She travelled to Accra out of concern, only to discover the children were healthy and the story had been fabricated to lure her back home.
She alleged that Lamptey accused her of infidelity, attacked her with a stick, stepped on her, smeared pepper on parts of her body including her genital area, forced her to have sex and threatened her life while preventing her from seeing her children. Harriet said she cried out for help but received no immediate intervention. A neighbour later persuaded Lamptey to unlock the door and drop a knife he was holding, but she said the assault continued after the neighbour left.
Harriet reported the incidents to the Tesano and Ofankor police stations and provided evidence, but initially felt no action was taken. Following public outcry, the Minister assured that government would ensure Harriet’s safety and her children’s wellbeing while pursuing justice.
A Magistrate Court at the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit earlier ordered the detention of Lamptey, also known as Nii Adjei, along with two relatives, Louis Odartey Lamptey and Grace Kushie Lamptey. Lamptey has been charged with physical assault under the Domestic Violence Act. His relatives face charges of conspiracy to commit a crime after allegedly threatening a tenant they suspected of filming the attack.
The three were remanded in police custody and are expected to reappear in court as proceedings continue.
Hon Agnes Naa Momo Lartey assured Parliament that the Ministry remains actively involved, providing Harriet with psychosocial counselling and other protective services to support her safety and recovery.
The case continues to draw attention to the urgent need for swift police action, stronger enforcement of domestic violence laws and comprehensive support for survivors in Ghana.
