Two dead, highway blocked after police operation in Western North community

A police operation in Sefwi Sayerano, Juaboso District of the Western North Region, ended in tragedy on Tuesday, July 7, when officers attempting to arrest a suspected drug trafficker encountered armed resistance from community members. The confrontation escalated when police allegedly opened fire, killing two residents and injuring two others.

Eyewitnesses say the clash began when residents tried to prevent officers from the Sefwi Wiawso Divisional Police Command from apprehending the suspect. During the ensuing violence, live ammunition was discharged. Two victims were fatally shot, whilst two others sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to a nearby health facility. Residents also reported that another person went missing during the operation, though authorities had not confirmed this claim at the time of reporting.

The deadly incident sparked immediate public anger. Residents blockaded the main highway connecting Sefwi Sayerano to neighbouring communities in Bia West District, preventing traffic flow and blocking security personnel from entering the town. One victim was moved to a morgue whilst the second body remained in the community as locals demanded justice.

Community member Okyeame Kwaku Ortiz called for an independent investigation into the police conduct, urging authorities to hold anyone responsible accountable. The Ghana Police Service had not issued an official statement on the shooting as of publication, and the exact circumstances triggering the use of firearms remain unclear as investigations continue.