UK Teen Wins Appeal After Being Secretly Sent to Ghana by Parents

A 14-year-old British boy has won a landmark legal appeal after being secretly taken from London to Ghana by his parents, who feared he was becoming involved in gang-related activities. The teenager, whose identity remains protected, was told in March 2024 that he was visiting a sick relative in Ghana. Instead, he was enrolled in a boarding school there against his wishes. The parents acted out of concern for his safety in London, but their son, feeling abandoned and culturally isolated, took legal action to return to the UK.

Initially, the High Court ruled in favor of the parents, stating they acted out of “deep, obvious and unconditional love,” and believing the boy was at risk of greater harm if he remained in London due to alleged peripheral gang involvement and an unhealthy interest in knives. However, the Court of Appeal has now overturned that decision, stating the original judge did not sufficiently weigh the boy’s best interests or acknowledge his capacity to make informed decisions.

Sir Andrew McFarlane, the most senior judge in the Family Division, said the earlier ruling demonstrated confusion and that a rehearing was necessary. He emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue within the family while highlighting the legal significance of the case.

The boy’s barrister, Deirdre Fottrell KC, told the court that the child feels “culturally displaced and alienated,” describing himself as a “London boy” and expressing desperation to return home. His solicitor, James Netto, called the appeal win a “hugely significant” step in international family law, stressing the need to listen to young people’s voices in decisions that deeply affect their lives.

Meanwhile, the parents’ legal team argued that Ghana offered a safer environment for the boy and was the “least harmful” option under the circumstances. Despite that, the Court of Appeal found the boy’s personal welfare and maturity had not been properly considered in the original judgment.

The teenager, who remains in Ghana and now attends a day school, previously told the court he felt like he was “living in hell,” unable to understand classes and facing ridicule from peers. The case will now be reheard by a different judge in the coming weeks, with a full written decision expected at a later date.