A 23-year-old man, Kwabena Agyei, suspected to have been involved in illegal mining activities, locally known as galamsey, has been found dead at Akontanim in the Dormaa East District.
The police say the incident occurred on Monday, April 13, 2026. Preliminary findings indicate that a report was lodged around 6:10 p.m. by the Akontanim Area Council Chairman, Bismark Ofori, who had earlier discovered the lifeless body on the outskirts of the community at about 4:30 p.m.
A police team that visited the scene found the body laid at the Akontanim chief’s palace, positioned on its back and covered with a white bedsheet. The deceased, who was wearing black shorts, had traces of muddy clay on his face and visible injuries on his chest and back, suggesting he may have been assaulted.
Investigators believe the deceased had been part of a group engaged in illegal mining when they encountered members of a taskforce from the Dormaa Traditional Area set up to combat galamsey activities, an encounter that is suspected to have led to his death.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 14, the Bono Regional Command of the Ghana Police Service, through its Public Relations Officer Chief Inspector Thomas Akeelah, confirmed the incident.
The development sparked tension in the area later that evening. Around 7:30 p.m., a group estimated at about 70 individuals, believed to be illegal miners, blocked the main road at Kyeremasu on the Dormaa Ahenkro–Berekum highway by burning tyres and obstructing traffic.
The group reportedly attacked two police vehicles with stones and other objects, causing damage and disrupting movement. A combined team of police and military personnel later moved in to clear the road and restore order.
Tensions flared again the following morning, Tuesday, April 14, when a larger crowd, estimated at about 400 people, mounted a similar blockade on the Berekum–Dormaa road. Security personnel were deployed and succeeded in dispersing the group, restoring calm in the area.
Police say investigations into the suspected killing are ongoing, with efforts underway to identify and arrest those responsible.
The body has been deposited at the Dormaa Ahenkro Presbyterian Hospital morgue for preservation, identification, and autopsy.
“The command wishes to advise the public to desist from any violent acts that will jeopardise the peace of the area, while efforts are underway to get the perpetrators of the crime apprehended to face the full rigours of the law,” the statement added.
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