Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency to arrest and prosecute disrespectful and undignified handling of corpses

The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA) has warned that it will arrest and prosecute individuals who engage in the undignified handling of corpses.

According to the agency, such practices contravene public health tenets.

The warning comes amid recent viral videos showing corpses being handled in undignified manners, sparking widespread outrage and calls for action.

The registrar of The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency, Francis Ennin, warned during an interview on Otec FM’s morning show “Nyansapo” on Friday, hosted by Kwaku Owusu Boateng.

Respect and dignity for the deceased
"We will not spare anyone involved in the disrespectful and undignified handling of corpses," said Francis Ennin,

The Registrar added, "To maintain the dignity and respect for our departed family members, any person or group of persons found to be involved in such acts will be made to face the law."

Legal framework
Francis Ennin cited Section 285 of the Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), which addresses the unlawful hindrance of burial, disinterment, or harm to a deceased body.

"The Act stipulates that such actions are considered a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or imprisonment," he stated.

Public health concerns
The agency is also concerned about the potential public health risks associated with the undignified handling of corpses.

"Apart from the violation, it contravenes public health tenets, as there is a possibility of someone contracting some infections from the corpses," Ennin cautioned.

Call to action
Francis Ennin urged the public to report any abhorrent acts to the Agency for immediate action.

"Let us continue to uphold and cherish the memories of our departed loved ones," he emphasised.