A seven-year-old boy has been tragically shot and killed in Akyem Asuom, Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region, as tensions escalated during a violent confrontation between the local youth and police.
The shooting is believed to be carried out by the police in the area.
The clash reportedly arose from a dispute between the chief of the area, Osabarima Ofosuhene Apenteng II, and the youth over an old palace.
Attempts by the police to intervene and deescalate the situation led to gunfire, leaving three people wounded, including the deceased boy.
The tensions have escalated in Akyem Asuom, in the Kwaebibirem Municipality of the Eastern Region, following the violent confrontation.
The incident is believed to have stemmed from a misunderstanding between the chief of the area, Osabarima Ofosuhene Apenteng II, and the local youth over an old palace. According to information gathered, the situation intensified when police attempted to intervene and prevent the youth from attacking the chief, resulting in gunfire.
Among the victims is seven-year-old Nana Kwasi, who, along with Alex Twum, 50, has been rushed to the St. Dominic Catholic Hospital in Akwatia for medical attention. A third victim, Ofori Dominic, has been treated and discharged from the Asuom Health Center.
Speaking to the media, Nana Boadi Amponim Obodade III, the Krontihene of Akyem Asuom, called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to urgently intervene, expressing concerns over the safety of innocent children, vulnerable individuals, and property in the area.
In response to the rising tensions, a heavy security presence of both military and police personnel has been deployed on the principal streets of Akyem Asuom.
Local youth have voiced their frustrations to the media, shedding light on their side of the events that led to the violent outburst.
