The Chief and people of Nyinahin are demanding an independent investigation into the fatal shooting of a mourner by military personnel on Thursday, April 24.
The incident, which also left three others injured, has sparked outrage, with calls for the perpetrators to face justice.
Preliminary reports reveal that a group of mourners were on their way to bury a deceased friend when soldiers aboard a military truck stopped them after spotting one mourner, Akwasi Lala (alias Kushivi), wearing a military camouflage uniform.
Eyewitnesses say the soldiers attempted to forcibly remove the uniform, leading to a confrontation. In the ensuing altercation, a soldier allegedly shot Lala in the head at point-blank range, killing him instantly. The military then reportedly fired additional shots, injuring three others.
While acknowledging that civilians are prohibited from wearing military attire, Nana Amanpene Boateng Twum II, Chief of Nyinahin, insists that such an infraction should not result in extrajudicial killing.
“Wearing a military uniform without permission is wrong, but it does not justify murder. We have been assured by the police of justice, and we are looking forward to the soldier who pulled the trigger to be made to face the law. This should not be swept under the rug”, Chief of Nyinahin, Nana Amanpene Boateng Twum II requested.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation, with forensic teams retrieving bullet casings from the scene.
Meanwhile, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Ashanti Regional Executives visited Nyinahin to console the bereaved family and assure them of justice.
The team urged the youth to remain calm.
“The unjustified attacks on civilians by the military is becoming one too many and must be stopped now. The dead is gone but serving the family justice will assuage their pain. We have advised to youth to exercise patience and allow the law to take its course”, Andrew Nana Akwasi, NDC Ashanti Regional Chairman pointed out.
The deceased’s body has been deposited at the Nyinahin Community Mortuary for autopsy.
The injured are receiving treatment Nyinahin Hospital and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
The military high command is yet to issue an official statement.
The post Fatal shooting at Nyinahin: Chief and people call for independent probe first appeared on 3News.
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