Two dead, several injured in Teshie Homowo clashes
Two people have been confirmed dead and several others injured following violent clashes during the Homowo Kpokpoi Sprinkling Ceremony in the Teshie Traditional Area.
The deceased, identified as 30-year-old Eddy Blessing and 27-year-old Patrick Maamah Martey Fio, were pronounced dead on arrival at the LEKMA Hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds.
At least one of the injured is reported to be in critical condition, while others are receiving treatment at various facilities.
According to the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) of the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly, the disturbances began in the early hours of the celebration when rival groups clashed, disrupting the ceremony.
Stones were thrown and sporadic gunfire was reported, prompting police to intervene.
Although security personnel managed to briefly restore calm to allow the Paramount Chief, Gbetsoolo Nii Ashitey Akonfra III, to perform his traditional rites, violence flared up again later in the morning.
This second wave of clashes was said to involve factions aligned with different traditional leaders, escalating tensions further.
The violent confrontations caused panic across the community and overwhelmed hospital emergency units as relatives rushed to check on victims.
Police and health officials, however, worked together to restore order and provide medical attention to the injured.
MUSEC has assured residents that investigations are underway to track down and prosecute the perpetrators. The council also extended its condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
“We urge residents and traditional factions in Teshie to remain calm and cooperate with security authorities to ensure peace and order,” the council said in a statement.
