Josiah
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has visited the family of the 16-year-old boy who was allegedly tied to a quad bike and dragged along a road at North Legon.
The visit formed part of efforts by the ministry to assess the welfare needs of the boy and provide support to the family following the incident, which has sparked widespread public concern.
Dr Lartey met the boy and his relatives and assured them of the government’s commitment to protecting the child and supporting his recovery and psychosocial wellbeing.
She also thanked residents who intervened to rescue the teenager and praised individuals and organisations that offered support to the family after the incident.
The minister urged parents and caregivers to adopt non-violent forms of discipline, stressing that child abuse should never be treated as a private family matter when the safety of a child is at risk.
She called on the public to remain vigilant and report cases of abuse to the appropriate authorities.
As part of the visit, the ministry donated relief items including rice, cooking oil, beans, milk, tinned tomatoes, toiletries, antiseptics and soaps to the family.
A cash donation of GH¢5,000 was also presented to assist with the boy’s medical care and other immediate needs.
Dr Lartey said the ministry was taking steps to enrol the family onto the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty programme to provide additional support and improve their living conditions.
She added that the ministry would collaborate with the Madina MP, Francis-Xavier Sosu, and the district assembly to provide a wheelchair for the boy’s sister.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring their welfare.
According to police, the incident occurred on 3 May after the teenager went out to play football with friends.
Investigators said a 60-year-old man, identified as Eric Mante, allegedly confronted the boy, tied him to a quad bike and dragged him along the road near Adonai Church.
Police said the teenager sustained multiple injuries after falling onto the tarred road and being dragged for some distance.
Source:Omanghana
