The Ejura Divisional Council has issued a strong condemnation of the recent attack on the Ejura District Police Command, demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible. The violence, which resulted in the destruction of the police station, vehicles, and private property, followed the death of 26-year-old Shaibu Masawudu while in police custody.
Masawudu's death sparked outrage in the community. He had been detained on allegations of phone theft and died at the Ejura Government Hospital after experiencing stomach pain and vomiting. Allegations of police misconduct further fueled the unrest. The family claims the police failed to inform them of his death, transported his body to Mampong for an autopsy, and subsequently abandoned it in the bush. These actions, perceived as callous and disrespectful, ignited protests that escalated into the violent attack on the police command.
In response to the escalating situation, a meeting was convened by the traditional authority, led by Ejurahene Barimah Osei Hwedie II. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Member of Parliament for the area, Zongo Chiefs, police representatives, and other community leaders, to address the crisis and seek lasting solutions.
Ejurahene Barimah Osei Hwedie II expressed deep concern over the destruction of property and appealed for calm, urging community members to cooperate with the police investigation. The Ashanti North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Jude Cobina, addressed the gathering, outlining the security measures implemented to restore peace. He confirmed the deployment of over 100 police officers and assured stakeholders of the police's commitment to working collaboratively to restore order. DCOP Cobina emphasized that all those involved in the attack would be held accountable and urged citizens to uphold the law.
The Ejura Divisional Council's condemnation underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for swift justice. The incident highlights the urgent need for improved police-community relations and transparent investigations into deaths in custody.
The council's call for calm and the police's commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice are crucial steps towards restoring peace and preventing future incidents of violence. The ongoing investigation and subsequent legal proceedings will be closely watched by the community and the nation as a whole.
