The Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU) under the Airport Divisional Police Command in Accra has arrested two nannies for allegedly administering sleep-inducing substances to twin toddlers in their care.
According to Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of the Public Affairs Unit, the suspects — Francisca, 30, a student nurse from Konongo in the Ashanti Region, and Harriet, 31, from Jasikan in the Oti Region — were arrested following a complaint lodged by the children’s mother, a 40-year-old businesswoman, in September 2025.
The mother reportedly noticed persistent drowsiness and unusual behaviour in her two-year-old twin boys. Her suspicions led to further inquiries, which revealed that the nannies had allegedly been mixing an unidentified sleep-inducing substance into the children’s milk without her consent.
Police investigations further revealed that Harriet confessed to the act, adding that she had learned the practice from her colleague, Francisca.
In a disturbing confession, Harriet also admitted to other forms of abuse — including striking the children’s heads with fire and verbally assaulting them with derogatory names such as “chimpanzee.”
The suspects, who had been employed by the complainant for about eight months, were found in possession of two used and four unused sachets containing substances believed to have been used in the alleged offence. These items have since been seized and sent for forensic analysis.
Both suspects have been cautioned and charged, and are currently in police custody. They are expected to reappear before court on 20th October 2025.
The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has condemned the alleged acts, describing them as “deplorable and unacceptable.”
Superintendent Obeng further urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant when entrusting domestic staff with the care of children and other vulnerable persons.
The police assured the public that investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided in due course.
