Police Bribery in Ghana: What Tourists and Expats Should Do
Table of Contents
Overview: Police bribery in Ghana
Police bribery in Ghana is something many visitors hear about before arriving. While most Ghanaian officers are professional, a small number ask for money during roadside stops. Tourists and expats often feel unsure about what they are allowed to do or say. This guide explains how to respond safely and within Ghanaian law, using real experiences from the ground and insights from official legal documents such as the 1992 Constitution of Ghana.
Why police bribery happens
Although bribery is illegal in Ghana, petty corruption can still appear at checkpoints and roadblocks. Officers may say you made a mistake, ask what you can do for me, or avoid issuing a written ticket. These are common signs of an attempted bribe. Most visitors do not want trouble, which makes them targets. Staying calm, knowing your rights, and insisting on proper procedure are the safest things you can do.
Step by step guide: What to do if an officer asks for money
1. Stay calm and respectful
Tone matters. Do not get angry or confrontational. Keeping things calm reduces the chance of escalation.
2. Ask for the official procedure
Say something simple like: I understand, officer. Can we please go to the station so I can follow the proper process. Officers seeking a bribe usually avoid going to a station.
3. Do not hand over money
Under Ghanaian law, giving or receiving a bribe is illegal. Paying can create more problems later. You protect yourself by refusing politely.
4. Avoid accusations
Do not say you are corrupt or you want a bribe. This can escalate the situation. Instead, remain neutral and procedural.
5. Document the encounter if safe
Note the location, time, vehicle number, or officer name tag. Only record audio or video discreetly if it will not cause conflict.
6. Mention your embassy calmly
If the situation feels unsafe, say that you may need to contact your embassy for guidance. This often stops the request because embassies monitor incidents involving their citizens.
7. If taken to a station, follow proper steps
Ask for a written charge or citation. Request to speak with a senior officer. Do not sign anything you do not fully understand.
Common signs of a bribe attempt
| Behavior | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| Officer avoids issuing a written ticket | Likely a request for informal payment |
| Officer asks what you can do for him | Indirect request for money |
| Officer pressures you to pay immediately | Trying to avoid official process |
| Officer refuses to go to a police station | Station oversight would prevent bribery |
| Officer threatens to send you to jail unless you “make things right” | High pressure coercion designed to force payment without directly asking for money |
Your legal rights in Ghana
The 1992 Constitution guarantees protection from unlawful demands by public officers. Ghana’s Criminal Code makes bribery illegal for both the officer and the person offering money. You have the right to:
- Ask for a written ticket instead of an informal payment
- Request to go to a police station
- Refuse to pay any unofficial fee
- Contact your embassy if detained
If an officer claims you committed an offense, requesting to go to the station is one of the strongest legal protections available.
When to contact your embassy
Contact your embassy if:
- You are detained without proper explanation
- Your passport is taken improperly
- You feel unsafe or threatened
- You are pressured to pay money
Embassies cannot interfere with lawful arrests, but they can monitor your safety, speak to authorities, and guide you on next steps.
How to report police bribery in Ghana
You can file a report through:
- Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB): Handles police misconduct complaints.
- CHRAJ: The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice.
- Your embassy: They maintain records of incidents involving their citizens.
When reporting, include all details you documented. Even small reports help authorities track misconduct patterns.
Frequently asked questions
Is police bribery common in Ghana
It happens, but many officers follow proper procedures.
Should I record the officer
Only if it is safe, subtle, and will not escalate the moment.
Can I get in trouble for refusing to pay
No. Refusing a bribe is the correct and legal action.
Sources
- 1992 Constitution of Ghana
- The Ghana Legal System, Emmanuel Quansah
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified lawyer or the official Ghana Immigration Service and the Ministry of Interior (Ghana).