A dramatic scene unfolded at the Community 9 Cemetery in Tema, Ghana, when mortuary attendants from a local hospital intervened in a burial ceremony to reclaim a corpse due to unpaid fees.
According to reports, a mortuary attendant from the Tema General Hospital, along with a private undertaker, stormed the cemetery and seized the coffin, removing the dressed corpse and attempting to return it to the mortuary. This shocking turn of events occurred over a disputed balance of GH¢40 (approximately Sh1,000), which the family allegedly owed for services rendered.
Background ¶
The mortuary staff had been hired by the family to prepare the corpse for a fee of GH¢150 (around Sh3,000). However, after completing the task, the family reportedly refused to pay the outstanding balance and instead attempted to proceed with the burial without settling the debt.
The actions of the mortuary attendants caught mourners off guard, causing a disturbance at the gravesite. Eventually, family elders and friends intervened to resolve the situation, allowing the burial to proceed.
Response and Aftermath ¶
In response to the incident, the hospital issued a statement announcing an inquiry into the matter. The statement emphasized that the hospital has formal procedures in place for handling and releasing corpses, and any unofficial arrangements are considered personal and outside of official protocols.
The management is looking into the case of the individuals involved.
The incident highlights the importance of clear communication and adherence to established procedures in sensitive situations like funeral services.
The recovered account cited reporting by Nairobi News.
