Police arrest suspect over deadly attack at illegal mining site in Sefwi Asawinso

The Ghana Police Service has arrested a suspect following a violent attack at an illegal mining site within the Afao Hills Forest Reserve near Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’ in the Western North Region.

According to the Police, the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Divisional Command received information on May 18, 2026, that some persons had attacked a mining site in the forest reserve.

A police team led by the District Commander and Divisional Crime Officer later visited the Anhwiaso Community Hospital, where victims were receiving treatment.

Preliminary investigations indicate that Nana Kwesi Ayim III, Odikro of Sefwi Asawinso ‘A’, together with some youth from the community, allegedly went to the area after receiving information about ongoing illegal mining activities in the forest reserve.

Police said the group encountered persons allegedly engaged in illegal mining activities at the site, leading to a misunderstanding. During the confrontation, a group of men armed with firearms and cutlasses allegedly attacked Nana Kwesi Ayim III and his team.

Five people sustained gunshot and cutlass wounds during the incident. One victim, identified as Kwame Ayisi, aged 38, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Anhwiaso Community Hospital. The body has been deposited at the hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy, while the injured victims are responding to treatment.

Police identified the arrested suspect as Isaac Badu, also known as Obede, whom authorities described as the alleged kingpin behind the attack. He is currently in custody, assisting investigations.

The Police said efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest other accomplices linked to the incident.

The Regional Police Command cautioned the public against resorting to violence in resolving disputes and urged individuals with relevant information to cooperate with investigators.

It also assured residents that the situation is under control and that security measures have been put in place to maintain law and order in the affected communities.