DOVVSU Raises Alarm Over Gender-Based Violence in Ashanti Region

By: Abdul Basit Suleman 

The Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service has expressed deep concern over the growing number of domestic violence cases reported in the Ashanti Region, with officials highlighting alarming trends of sexual abuse against women and verbal and psychological abuse against men.

Speaking during the launch of a month-long campaign against gender-based violence on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Chief Superintendent Victoria Yeboah Darkwa, the Ashanti Regional DOVVSU Coordinator, revealed a surge in complaints involving child neglect, parental irresponsibility, and various forms of abuse—ranging from sexual and physical to psychological and verbal.

Chief Superintendent Darkwa pointed out that while women and girls remain the most affected by sexual and physical abuse, there is a noticeable increase in reports of verbal and psychological abuse from male victims. “This signals a need for expanded support services and continuous public education to break the silence surrounding male victims of domestic violence,” she said.

She reassured victims that the Unit is committed to providing confidential, professional, and survivor-centered services. “Unlike media narratives that often expose the struggles of survivors, DOVVSU operates under strict confidentiality protocols that safeguard the dignity of all complainants,” she stated.

Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe, echoed the call for public vigilance and immediate reporting of all forms of abuse. He urged both male and female officers of DOVVSU to actively support victims and uphold justice for all, regardless of gender.

“Psychological and emotional abuse—especially those experienced by men—must not be trivialized. They are legitimate forms of domestic violence that deserve equal attention and action,” DCOP Cudjoe emphasized.

As part of its advocacy and awareness drive, DOVVSU has rolled out a new campaign dubbed “30 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence”, under the theme “From Silence to Strength: Speak Up, Stand Up, Support.” The campaign is aimed at encouraging both victims and witnesses of abuse to speak out and seek help without fear of stigma or retribution.

The Ashanti Regional Police says the campaign will include community outreach, school visits, media sensitization, and capacity building for frontline officers to enhance the handling of gender-based violence cases.

Officials say they are determined to foster a safer environment where survivors—regardless of gender—can access justice, healing, and protection.