The Kibi Divisional Police Command has launched investigations into a bloody clash which ensued between residents of Akyem Obuoho near Anum Apapam in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern region and some gunmen claiming to be members of the Okyenhene’s Environmental taskforce.
The clashes led to sporadic gunshots which injured seven persons including one Ebenezer Narh, who has been hospitalized.
Two vehicles, a Toyota Highlander and a taxi used by the taskforce were set ablaze .
The Chief of Akyem Aworase who is currently receiving treatment was beaten to pulp and stripped half naked during the melee which occurred during the Christmas festivities .
There are claims the chief mobilized the eight men, believed to be members of the taskforce, to raid a mining site at New Obuoho near Anum Apapam.
According to sources, the gunmen began firing warning shots into the bush after noticing that the miners had fled before their arrival.
The frustrated taskforce reportedly vented their anger on farmers they met in the bush and assaulted some of them. The attacks sparked a confrontation between the farmers and some individual members of the taskforce leading to the injuries.
According to Starr News’ Kojo Ansah, the entire community later got involved in the fight and also subjected the chief of Aworasa, who was in the company of the chief of Breman, to some beating and subsequently stripped naked.
The victims were rushed to the Suhum Government Hospital for treatment.
Speaking to Starr News, the Kibi Divisional Police Crime Officer, DSP Emmanuel Isaka said investigations are ongoing in the matter and a letter has been sent to the Okyenhene’s office for comments on the issue.
He said four members of the taskforce and the chief were arrested but have been granted bail to seek medical attention.