On May 14, 2022, the Halifax District RCMP became aware of an on-duty obstruction of a peace officer allegation made against Cst. Kwame Amoateng, after an incident that occurred in the Kemptown area. Cst. Amoateng is posted to Halifax District.
Northwest RCMP Traffic Services notified Halifax District RCMP at the time of the incident and the matter was immediately referred to the Nova Scotia Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT), which completed an independent investigation.
On September 8, SiRT charged Cst. Amoateng with Obstructing a Peace Officer under Section 129(a) of the Criminal Code. He's scheduled to attend Pictou Provincial Court on October 3, 2022.
The criminal charge is disconcerting and these incidents are taken seriously. Cst. Amoateng, who's been an RCMP member for over 9 years, is currently on administrative duties. An internal code of conduct investigation has been initiated and is ongoing. Cst. Amoateng's duty status will be continuously assessed throughout both the Court and internal processes.
Media release issued by SiRT:
RCMP Member Charged with Obstruction
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The province's Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has laid a charge of obstruction against a member of the RCMP.
On May 16, 2022, SiRT was contacted by the RCMP after receiving a complaint of a member obstructing a peace officer in the execution of their duties. The incident is alleged to have taken place on May 14, 2022.
After investigating the matter, one charge of obstruction was laid against Cst. Kwame Amoateng, a member of the Halifax District RCMP. He will appear in Pictou Provincial Court on October 3, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.
SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia. Investigations are under the direction and control of independent civilian interim director John Scott, who is solely responsible for decisions respecting the laying of any charge.