Hohoe: Residents clash with police in Godenu; 3 feared dead, police vehicle set ablaze

Tensions are escalating in Dodenyu, a village near Hohoe in the Volta Region, following reports of police firing on residents, resulting in one fatality and several injuries.

The incident occurred on the morning of August 30, 2023, when the police allegedly attempted to apprehend a man suspected of transporting Indian hemp from his farm. The man managed to evade capture by riding his motorcycle into a village house. In response, the police reportedly fired shots indiscriminately, leading to the death of a resident and multiple injuries. It's also claimed that the police set fire to all visible motorcycles.

In response, some villagers purportedly set ablaze one of the four police vehicles present.

The injured individuals are currently receiving medical treatment, while the deceased's body has been conveyed to the morgue.

Local authorities have informed the Member of Parliament representing the area, and the police have initiated an investigation.

Fearing further violence, many residents have taken refuge in their homes, avoiding coming out into the open.

One resident, Francis Kakraba, recounted the incident to citinewsroom.com, stating, "Around 10:00 AM in the morning, I heard gunshots. I hurried outside and witnessed people in distress. Allegedly failing to apprehend a farmer returning from his fields who was suspected of carrying Indian hemp, the police arrived at the community and began shooting. During the commotion, some of their vehicles caught fire. In the chaos, injuries were sustained, and lives were lost."

The event has incited anger among residents, who are seeking justice for the victims and advocating for an end to police brutality in the region.