The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has strongly condemned a violent incident that followed a confrontation between suspected illegal mining operators and the police at Jacobu in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.
Describing the incident as unfortunate, Dr. Amoakohene stressed that no individual or group has the right to mobilise or attack men in uniform, noting that the police have a constitutional mandate to maintain peace and security across the country.
The confrontation reportedly resulted in the death of one person, while several others sustained injuries.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, January 26, the Ashanti Regional Minister said, “Over the weekend, there was an unfortunate incident involving some residents of Jacobu and police personnel, which led to the death of one person.
“I must condemn, without fear of contradiction, the mobilisation and attack on men in uniform. No one has the right to do that. That confrontation was avoidable, and any loss of life is deeply regrettable.”
He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of swift processes regarding the release of the body.
“My condolences go to the family. The Municipal Chief Executive has engaged them, and although they are remorseful and seeking access to the body, I want to assure them that the process will be expedited. However, investigations and due process must be followed,” he stated.
The Minister also cautioned the youth against confronting the police directly.
“I want to assure the youth that if you have any problem, do not confront the police. The police are your friends. There are legally available channels through which grievances can be addressed, rather than mobilising and attacking men in uniform,” he said.
He added that authorities are engaging the community to ensure cooperation and facilitate thorough investigations.
“We are engaging the community to secure their cooperation and ensure that the right investigations are carried out,” he added.
In a post on Facebook on January 24, the police revealed that the incident occurred on Thursday, January 23, 2026, while officers were on routine patrol duties.
According to the Police, the officers had earlier retrieved a pump-action gun from a 15-year-old boy and instructed him to direct the owner of the weapon to report to the police station with the necessary documentation.
However, while the patrol team was returning, they were confronted by a crowd of about 100 people who blocked the road. The group, some of whom were armed with cutlasses and firearms, reportedly assaulted the officers and seized a service rifle.
In the ensuing confrontation, the individual who took possession of the rifle was shot by the police, while another suspect sustained injury. The Police said the service rifle was successfully recovered.
