One person has been killed and three others injured in a violent outbreak during preparations for the Odwira festival in Aburi-Ahwerase in Akuapem South Municipality in the Eastern Region.
Police have arrested 34 young men linked to the incident and recovered firearms used in the attack.
The violence erupted on October 22 at around 11 a.m. as Nana Semeshia Ohene Asah Krofa II, Abakomahene of the Asona family of Ahwerase, attempted to perform rituals to lift the ban on noisemaking ahead of the Odwira festival.
A dispute broke out between the Abakomahene and the Baamuhene over who had the rightful authority to carry out the ceremony.
During the altercation, some young men opened fire, leaving four people shot. One of the victims later died while receiving treatment at the Presbyterian Hospital in Aburi, while the three others are undergoing medical care.
The Public Relations Officer of the Eastern Regional Police Command, Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh, confirmed the arrests of 34 suspects who are assisting with investigations. He also noted that two weapons – a pump-action gun and a pistol – were recovered.
“When we conclude our investigations, we are going to ensure that the law takes its course and the persons who have been arrested are taken through the due process to serve as a deterrent to other persons who are bent on fomenting troubles and creating problems this year, especially with regards to the celebration of the Odwira festival,” Superintendent Tetteh said.
He added, “The police are going to ensure that nobody takes the law into his own hands and the security of the area before, during and after the festival is ensured.”
Security has reportedly been intensified to prevent any further disturbances, with the police assuring residents that everyone will be able to carry out their duties during the Odwira festival without hindrance, humiliation, or danger.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
