Ridge Hospital probe committee urges stronger security
By Rebecca Okine
The investigative committee probing last month’s altercation at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital) has recommended urgent reforms to strengthen security and restore public confidence in the facility’s Emergency Department (ED).
Presenting its report to Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the committee noted that inadequate security was a major factor that allowed tensions to escalate during the 17 August 2025 incident, which went viral on social media.
At the time of the confrontation, the hospital had only one private security officer on duty per 12-hour shift at the ED. The committee described this arrangement as “grossly insufficient” for a facility serving as Accra’s main trauma centre.
Although a police post exists on the hospital premises, its distance from the ED meant response times during emergencies were slow and often required backup from the Adabraka Police Command.
Security Recommendations
To improve security and ensure the safety of staff and patients, the committee recommended deploying additional security officers at both the ED and ambulance areas. It also advised that the ED gate should be constantly manned to control access and deter potential disturbances.
Furthermore, the committee called for the expansion of CCTV surveillance across critical zones to enhance monitoring and facilitate evidence gathering.
It proposed assigning police officers to support private security personnel, particularly during weekends and night shifts when the hospital is most vulnerable.
Beyond security, the committee urged the government to address chronic understaffing and repair non-functional diagnostic equipment, which it said contributes significantly to patient frustration and conflict.
The committee further clarified that emergency care was not delayed for the patient whose case triggered the altercation. Medical personnel reportedly attended promptly to the patient with a suspected head injury.
However, the absence of functioning diagnostic imaging equipment, including X-ray, CT scan and MRI machines, forced the hospital to rely on external facilities. This situation led to treatment delays and heightened public dissatisfaction.
The viral video of the incident captured heated exchanges between Mr Ralph St Williams, some commercial motor riders and hospital staff. The committee confirmed that while there was a verbal confrontation, there was no evidence of physical assault on the alleged victim, rotation nurse Rejoice Tsotso Bortei.
Ms Bortei later complained of pain in her left hand, but medical examination revealed no fractures or dislocations.
She was subsequently treated with pain relief and provided psychological support.
Minister’s Response
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh assured the media that the government is already taking steps to implement the committee’s recommendations.
“In fact, the very day we visited the hospital, I gave that instruction that they should look at the internal security. I also spoke to the police, so some of these measures have already started and we are in motion,” Mr Akandoh said.
The committee emphasised that implementing its recommendations swiftly is crucial to safeguarding healthcare staff, ensuring patient safety and preventing future incidents at Ridge Hospital.
