Two-year-old girl found dead in Western North Region; suspect arrested as police launch investigation

A devastating tragedy has unfolded in Sefwi Awaso, a community in the Bibiani Anhwiaso Bekwai Municipality of the Western North Region, following the death of a two-year-old girl days after she went missing. The child, identified as Denisa Neomina, was reported abducted on Saturday, 10 October 2026, and her lifeless remains were later discovered in circumstances that have shocked residents and raised serious child safety concerns.

According to reports, a 31-year-old man, Sumaila Adu Atta, allegedly took the girl from her home in Sefwi Awaso. The incident was immediately reported to the Sefwi Bekwai Police Station, prompting authorities to mobilise a comprehensive search operation. The search was coordinated by DSP Peter Nartey and led by the Bibiani District Police Command under ASP Sampson Abgeko's direction.

The search efforts, however, concluded with heartbreaking results. When Denisa's body was located, it was found in an extremely distressing state, with her head, both legs and right arm missing. The discovery has deepened community alarm and raised troubling questions about child protection in the area.

Police response and ongoing investigation

Following the discovery, police have arrested two suspects to assist with investigations into the circumstances surrounding the girl's death. The body has been transported to the Sefwi Anhwiaso Community Hospital morgue for preservation and further examination. Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of death and the identity of those responsible for the alleged abduction.

Kennedy Ayitey Wisdom, the Assemblyman for the Awaso Electoral Area, has been vocal in his response to the tragedy, urging parents and guardians in the community to exercise heightened vigilance regarding their children's safety and movements.

Why it matters for Ghana

This incident represents another troubling reminder of child safety vulnerabilities in some Ghanaian communities. Cases of child abduction and harm have periodically surfaced across the country, prompting ongoing national conversations about parental supervision, community awareness and police capacity to respond to such incidents.

The Western North Region, like many areas in Ghana, faces challenges balancing rural development with effective child protection mechanisms. The involvement of local assemblies, police and community members in search operations demonstrates the collaborative approach communities employ when children go missing, though such efforts don't always yield positive outcomes.

Experts and child protection advocates consistently emphasise the importance of community vigilance, transparent communication with children about stranger danger, and strong coordination between police and local authorities. The case also highlights the need for improved investigation techniques and resources to handle such sensitive matters swiftly and effectively.

Residents of Sefwi Awaso and surrounding areas are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to local police. The police investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities continue their work.