Glenn Samm shares lessons from his ‘StopGalamseyNow’ protest arrest

Ghanaian artist and founder of the Tsadidi Street Art Festival, Glenn Samm, has opened up about his recent arrest during the ‘StopGalamseyNow’ protest, where he was one of 53 individuals detained by police. In an interview with Andy Dosty on Daybreak Hitz on Hitz FM, Glenn reflected on the lessons he learned from his time in police custody.

“I’ve learnt in everything just be wise and keep calm,” he stated, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure even in challenging circumstances.

Glenn recounted the events leading to his arrest, explaining that he was simply sitting at a bus stop near the El Wak Sports Stadium when police approached him. “Monday, the protest didn’t even happen because we heard they were arresting some of our people. So me, I was just sitting at the bus stop. If I am sitting at El Wak, that is not part of the protest grounds,” he said.

He expressed his belief that the police were searching for specific individuals, suggesting that his appearance may have made him a target.

During his 16 days in custody, Glenn was moved between three different police cells in Accra. His detention, alongside the other protesters, sparked significant public outcry, with many criticizing the perceived “high-handed” approach of law enforcement.

After being remanded for nearly two weeks, Glenn Samm and other detainees were eventually granted bail. The protests aimed to raise awareness about illegal mining in Ghana and its detrimental effects on the environment.