Wearing his school uniform and driven by quiet frustration, a teenage boy walked into the offices of DOVVSU in Sunyani, demanding help not for physical abuse, but for being denied food and pocket money at home.
The unexpected move captured the attention of the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Bono Regional Police Command, prompting officers to step in swiftly. According to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Beatrice Korsah, the boy’s family was immediately invited for mediation.
“We invited his parents and we have since resolved the matter amicably,” DSP Korsah revealed to the media. Far from being dismissed, the boy’s complaint was welcomed as an eye-opener.
“His situation highlights the plight of many children who are suffering in their homes in silence,” she said, commending him for standing up for his rights.“His decision to report his parents led to a positive outcome and reflects our commitment to creating a safe space where everyone can speak up.”
The case has reignited public discourse around child neglect, and DOVVSU is using the moment to encourage other victims of abuse, especially those silenced by stigma, to come forward.
DSP Korsah noted that men also experience domestic violence but often stay silent due to societal pressure. “Some men are suffering in their homes but feel they can’t report because of stigmatisation,” she said.
She stressed that DOVVSU is open to all children, women, and men alike, and called on the public to trust the system and report abuse of any form.
“Every abuse case must be reported to DOVVSU personnel who are well trained and capable of handling them professionally,” DSP Korsah assured.“We do not aim to break families apart, but to protect and rebuild them.”
She reaffirmed that DOVVSU is a safe space for everyone, regardless of age or gender, and urged the public to speak up without fear.
The teenager’s actions, though surprising to many, are now being hailed as a courageous act that may inspire other young people to assert their rights in nonviolent, lawful ways.
