Ashanti region: The Ashanti Regional Police Command has commenced investigations into an incident in which a group of suspected illegal miners attacked police officers on patrol duty at Bepotenten Sukuum in the Amansie Central District. The attack occurred on January 23, 2026, during a routine patrol operation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the officers had earlier confiscated a pump-action gun from a 15-year-old boy in the area and directed him to ask the owner of the weapon to report to the nearest police station with the necessary documentation. While returning from their patrol, the officers were confronted by a group of young men believed to be illegal miners, who had blocked the road.
A confrontation ensued, during which a service rifle belonging to one of the officers was seized. In an attempt to retrieve the weapon, the police fired warning shots, resulting in the death of one of the attackers and injuries to others. The service rifle was later recovered.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has issued a stern warning to the public against assaulting police officers and assured that all persons involved in the attack will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.