GHANA Two women were caught attempting to steal. Locals punished them according to the rules of street justice – both were publicly humiliated. Their head hair was carelessly shaved off and they were forced to remove the top part of their clothing.
The phenomenon of street justice is still widespread in Ghana, as well as in many other African countries. The government is trying to actively fight it through campaigns and exemplary punishments for offenders, but despite these efforts, the reduction has been minimal. Local people have a deeply rooted belief that if they do not punish the offender themselves, he will never be punished. This belief stems from distrust in the state justice system and the police.
Even though people may have various reasons for carrying out street justice, the unchanging fact remains that such actions are unacceptable. It is a gross violation of basic human rights, which even thieves, murderers, and violent offenders possess. These rights include the right to life, dignity, and a fair trial.
