Western North: Police arrest suspect over deadly attack at illegal mining site in Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’

Police in the Western North Region have arrested one suspect in connection with a violent attack at an illegal mining site within the Afao Hills Forest Reserve near Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’.

The incident, which occurred on Monday, May 18, left one person dead and several others injured.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the police said the attack followed a confrontation between a community-led group and suspected illegal miners.

Preliminary police findings indicate that Nana Kwesi Ayim III, the Odikro of Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’, and some youth from the community moved to the site after receiving information about ongoing illegal mining activities in the reserve.

Upon arrival, they reportedly encountered armed individuals actively engaged in mining operations, triggering a confrontation that escalated into violence.

During the clash, the group allegedly came under attack from men armed with firearms and cutlasses, resulting in gunshot and cutlass injuries to five people.

One victim, 38-year-old Kwame Ayisi, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Anhwiaso Community Hospital, while the injured are currently receiving treatment and responding positively.

The police say one suspect, identified as Isaac Badu, also known as Obede, is believed to have played a leading role in organising and executing the attack.

He is currently in custody assisting investigations, with efforts ongoing to arrest other accomplices linked to the incident.

“The Regional Command would like to caution the public against resorting to violence in the resolution of disagreements and urges all individuals with relevant information to volunteer same to the police," part of the statement read.

The police further assured residents that security has been reinforced in the area to maintain order and prevent further disturbances.