PNDC Law 111 in Ghana: Criminal Procedure Code (1985)

PNDC Law 111 (1985) = Criminal Code (Procedure) Law, 1985.

Scope

Comprehensive statute governing criminal procedure in Ghana, from investigation to appeal.

Key Provisions

• Jurisdiction: Which courts try which offenses (District, Circuit, High Court)
• Arrest & Detention: Powers, warrants, rights of arrested person, bail
• Search & Seizure: Warrants, procedures, evidence handling
• Charge & Prosecution: Information, indictment, nolle prosequi, DPP role
• Trial Procedure: Plea, evidence (examination/cross), burden of proof, defenses
• Summary vs. Indictable Trials: Procedures for each
• Sentencing: Options, mitigating/aggravating factors
• Appeals: High Court → Court of Appeal → Supreme Court
• Special Provisions: Juveniles, mentally impaired, corporate bodies

Context

• Enacted by Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC) military government (Rawlings)
• Supplements Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) (substantive law)
• Amended several times (e.g., 2003, 2010, 2012)
• Being reviewed for full Criminal Procedure Code replacement

Significance

Primary procedural framework for Ghana's criminal justice system. Essential reference for police, prosecutors, defense lawyers, judges, law students.