A clash between the police and residents in the Mamprugu Moaduri district of the North East Region on Tuesday, December 26, has left ten individuals injured.
The incident unfolded when a young man, accused of stealing a motorbike, sought refuge in a nearby house to avoid potential harm from an angered mob.
Eyewitnesses described the situation escalating as locals gathered to apprehend the suspect, with tensions rising when the police intervened to prevent a lynching.
In response to the agitated mob, law enforcement officers fired warning shots, prompting the crowd to retaliate by throwing stones.
The chaotic scene unfolded in the market, resulting in injuries sustained by ten civilians who are currently undergoing medical treatment.
Additionally, six individuals were taken to the Walewale Government Hospital for further care.
Confirming the incident, Abu Adams, the district chief executive for the area, explained, “What I know is that there was a stolen [bike], and the youth mobilized to attack that person. In the process, somebody called the police to intervene, and by the time the police arrived, the youth too didn’t take it easy.”
Adams emphasized the importance of police prioritizing protection in such situations. “Irrespective of the situation, they have to prioritize protection. So, in an attempt to protect, the youth turned to attack the police.”
Acknowledging that the police were also targeted during the intervention, Adams mentioned, “I am yet to pick the correct details of the matter. So, the police were also attacked at that place, so they had to find a way out, and they started giving warning shots, and I believe some of these warning shots hit some people”.
Assembly member Adam Abdulai corroborated the incident, adding to the confirmation of the clash between local residents and the police.
Currently, the suspect is in police custody, and calm has been restored to the Loagri community, according to the police.