One person has been confirmed dead, and four others injured after a violent confrontation during the Odwira Festival at Ahwerease in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, October 22, with 34 people arrested so far and assisting with investigations at the Aburi Police Station.
According to a preliminary police report, the violence erupted when the Abokomahene of the Asona Family, Nana Semenhyia Asakrofa, performed traditional rites to lift the ban on drumming and noise-making, signalling the start of the Odwira Festival.
However, a misunderstanding reportedly arose between Nana Asakrofa and the Abimuhene of Ahwerease over who held the authority to perform the ceremony.
The dispute escalated into chaos, leading to gunfire from some individuals at the scene.
Four people sustained gunshot injuries, one of whom later died. A pump-action gun and a pistol were subsequently recovered from the scene.
The Eastern Regional Police PRO, Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh, confirmed the incident to Accra-based Citi News, adding that the seized weapons will aid the ongoing investigation.
He assured that the police will maintain law and order throughout the festival period and warned that anyone found responsible for the violence will face the full consequences of the law.
Source: Adomonline
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