Police in the Western North Region have arrested a man identified as Isaac Badu, also known as Obede, in connection with a deadly clash at an illegal mining site in the Afao Hills Forest Reserve near Sefwi Asawinso.
The violent confrontation, which occurred on Monday, May 18, 2026, left one person dead and five others injured.
According to a statement shared by the Ghana Police Service on X on May 19, 2026, the incident happened after a group led by Nana Kwesi Ayim II, the Odikro of Sefwi Asawinso, together with some local youth, stormed the forest reserve following reports of illegal mining activities in the area.
Upon arriving at the site, the group reportedly encountered suspected illegal miners, leading to a confrontation that turned violent.
Police said armed men allegedly attacked the group using firearms and machetes during the clash.
Five victims sustained gunshot and machete wounds and were rushed to the Anhwiaso Community Hospital for treatment.
One of the victims, identified as 38-year-old Kwame Ayisi, was pronounced dead on arrival. His body has since been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
The police indicated that the injured victims are responding positively to treatment.
Authorities identified Isaac Badu, alias Obede, as the alleged kingpin behind the attack. He is currently in police custody assisting with investigations, while efforts continue to track down and arrest other accomplices.
“The suspect is currently in police custody assisting with investigations,” the police statement said.
The Regional Police Command has urged residents to avoid using violence to settle disputes and encouraged members of the public with relevant information to support ongoing investigations.
Police further assured the public that calm has been restored in the area, with adequate security measures put in place to maintain order.
