Ghana Family Refuses to Claim Relative’s Body Over GH¢12,000 Autopsy Fee Dispute

A family in Kwahu Behenase, Ghana, has refused to collect the body of their 52-year-old relative following a disagreement with the police over a GH¢12,000 autopsy fee.

According to Adom News, the deceased’s brother, Agya Noah, said the family was shocked when they were informed they had to pay the large sum before the body could be released for burial. He explained that the family could only afford GH¢2,000, a fraction of the amount reportedly demanded, leading to a standoff with the Nkawkaw Police Command.

Noah lamented that the situation has left the family emotionally and financially distressed, as the body continues to lie in the morgue while they struggle to raise the required funds.

However, the Nkawkaw District Police Commander, Chief Superintendent Victor Kwakye, dismissed reports of any monetary dispute. He clarified that while the family was informed of the need for an autopsy to determine the cause of death, no specific amount was mentioned by the police.

The case has sparked public concern about the high cost of post-mortem services in Ghana and the barriers it poses for low-income families seeking justice or closure after losing loved ones.