- A violent clash erupted in Anum Apapamu during the installation of a new chief
- The violence was likely triggered by opposition to the new chief's appointment
- The confrontation involved individuals armed with pump-action guns
In Anum Apapamu, Eastern Region, one individual has been killed and another critically injured amidst a violent dispute over the installation of a new chief.
The conflict erupted after the town decided to appoint a new leader following the death of the previous chief.
Eyewitness recounted the events to Kumasi.city, describing how the violence unfolded. According to the eyewitness, during a ceremonial parade for the new chief, a white Pajero vehicle, driven by armed individuals, blocked the procession at a junction called Abinkyi Signboard.
The armed men, dressed in military-style attire, threatened the crowd with pump-action guns and demanded that the parade be halted. Despite the threats, the parade continued.
The situation escalated when, upon returning to the palace, two pickup trucks carrying about 15 armed men arrived and began firing warning shots.
The attackers demanded the new chief be handed over. In the ensuing chaos, one of the men questioning the attackers was shot and killed.
The assailant was subsequently captured and severely beaten by the local residents.
Nana Gyampo identified a man named Kwame Joe Owiredu as a primary instigator of the violence, claiming he had previously vowed to obstruct the installation of a new chief.
The police have taken control of the situation, with the deceased being sent to the morgue and the critically injured person receiving medical treatment. The police have yet to release an official statement on the disturbances.
The town of Anum Apapamu has been without a chief for over a year following the death of its previous leader.
