Shatta Wale Criticizes Police For Arresting Youth Over Toy Gun Trend

The Ghana Police Service recently arrested 26 people for displaying and firing toy guns, citing a violation of Section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29).

This action has divided opinions in Ghana, with some supporting it as a preventive measure against criminal misuse, while others view it as overly harsh.

The toy gun trend began in Kumasi, where young people started using toy guns to relive childhood memories.

Videos of the activity spread on social media, inspiring others to join in. However, some citizens raised concerns that criminals could exploit the trend for illegal activities. Dancehall artist Shatta Wale criticized the arrests, calling them “primitive” and unnecessary.

In a social media post, he argued that the police should focus on guiding and supporting the youth during the festive season rather than punishing them.

“Arresting ghetto youth for playing with toy guns instead of guiding them on celebrating Christmas is the most primitive act in 2024,” he wrote. Shatta Wale believes the authorities should work to engage and support the youth instead of treating what he sees as harmless fun as a criminal act.