The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has described a recent confrontation between police personnel and some youth in a mining community as avoidable, stressing that the police were acting within their mandate during an operation against illegal mining.
Speaking in an interview with GHOne News Ashanti Regional Correspondent, Isaac Justice Bediako, in Kumasi, Dr. Amoakohene explained that the police were acting on a tip-off from members of the community regarding suspected illegal mining activities.
According to him, the police encountered a 15-year-old miner who was in possession of a weapon, prompting officers to question him and subsequently seize the weapon for further investigations.
Dr. Amoakohene said although other workers later claimed ownership of the weapon and indicated they had the necessary documentation, the police insisted that the weapon could not remain in the custody of a miner.
He noted that the officers requested the relevant documents, which could not be produced at the scene.
The police, he said, therefore directed that the weapon be sent to the Jacobu Police Station for verification while they continued with their operation.
He added that on their return, the police officers were confronted by some youth who blocked their path, leading to the clash.
Dr. Amoakohene said the situation escalated when the youth attempted to forcibly retrieve the weapon from the custody of a police officer.
The Ashanti Regional Minister described the incident as unfortunate and reiterated that any loss of life is deeply regrettable.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that efforts were underway to grant them access to the body of the deceased.
He further indicated that the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, through the district Chief Executive, has engaged the family, adding that investigations and due process would be expedited.
Dr. Amoakohene cautioned the public against confronting security personnel and urged residents to use lawful channels to address grievances or alleged rights violations.
“The police are your friends,” he said, adding that mobilising against officers in uniform only worsens situations and can lead to tragic outcomes.
He assured that authorities are engaging the affected community to secure cooperation and ensure that residents’ rights are protected within the confines of the law.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
