In a deeply unsettling incident that unfolded on August 3, a man identified as Mustapha Iddrisu Danlad has been remanded by an Accra Circuit Court for allegedly firing indiscriminately at Madina Redco, leaving six people injured. The episode occurred as personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service were responding to a fire outbreak in the area.
Danlad, who claims to be a Task Force Officer with the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), is facing multiple charges, including unlawful discharge of a firearm without authority, possession of a firearm without lawful authority, and three counts of causing harm. He has, however, pleaded not guilty to all charges leveled against him. The court has ordered that he remain in police custody until his next appearance, scheduled for September 25, 2025.
Details of the Incident
According to Chief Inspector Daniel Danku, who led the prosecution, the incident began when officers from the Madina Divisional Police Command responded to a fire outbreak at Redco Flats around 1:00 p.m. on August 3. As fire personnel worked to contain the blaze, a misunderstanding reportedly erupted between Danlad and a group of bystanders at the scene. While the situation was initially calmed, events took a dangerous turn when Danlad left the area, only to return armed with a pump-action shotgun.
Without provocation, Danlad allegedly began firing indiscriminately into the crowd, causing chaos as people scrambled to escape both the fire and the gunfire. Tragically, six individuals were struck by pellets from the firearm. The injured were quickly rushed to nearby medical facilities, with some receiving treatment and being discharged, while others were referred to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for further care.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
Following the incident, Danlad reportedly went into hiding. After over a month of evading authorities, he was apprehended by police at Madina Redco in the early hours of September 12. In his caution statement to law enforcement officials, he is said to have admitted to committing the offence.
The court proceedings have drawn significant public attention due to the gravity of the charges and the circumstances surrounding the case. Danlad’s actions have raised critical questions about firearm possession and misuse, as well as public safety during emergency situations.
Implications and Next Steps
This incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of firearm regulations in Ghana. The alleged misuse of a pump-action shotgun in a public setting underscores the potential dangers posed by unauthorized access to firearms. Additionally, the case has brought into focus the importance of ensuring the safety of emergency responders and civilians during crises such as fire outbreaks.
As Danlad awaits his next court appearance on September 25, 2025, many will be watching closely to see how justice is served in this troubling case. The outcome is expected to send a strong message about accountability and the rule of law in Ghana.
This story is a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of reckless actions and underscores the critical role of law enforcement and judicial systems in maintaining public safety and order.
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Curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
