A 23-year-old man, Kwabena Agyei, believed to be involved in illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has been found dead at Akontanim in the Dormaa East District of the Bono Region.
According to police, the incident occurred on Monday, April 13, 2026. Preliminary investigations indicate that at about 6:10 p.m., a report was received from the Akontanim Area Council Chairman, Bismark Ofori, who had earlier discovered the lifeless body of the young man on the outskirts of the town around 4:30 p.m.
A team of officers who visited the scene found the body lying at the Akontanim chief’s palace in a supine position and covered with a white bedsheet. The deceased, dressed in black shorts, had muddy clay on his face and visible signs of assault on his chest and back.
Police say further investigations suggest that the deceased, together with others, was engaged in illegal mining activities when they were confronted by a team from the Dormaa Traditional Area Anti-Galamsey Taskforce, leading to his death.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, April 14, the Bono Regional Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Thomas Akeelah, confirmed the incident, stating that it involved the death of the 23-year-old.
The incident triggered unrest in the area later that evening. At about 7:30 p.m., a group of about 70 individuals, believed to be illegal miners, blocked the main road at Kyeremasu on the Dormaa Ahenkro–Berekum highway by burning car tyres and obstructing traffic.
During the disturbances, the group attacked two police vehicles with stones and other objects, causing damage and disrupting vehicular movement. A joint police and military team later intervened to clear the road and restore traffic flow.
Tensions escalated the following morning, Tuesday, April 14, when a larger group of about 400 individuals again blocked the Berekum–Dormaa road using similar methods. Security personnel were deployed and successfully dispersed the crowd, restoring calm in the area.
Police say investigations into the suspected murder are ongoing, with efforts underway to identify and arrest those responsible.
The body of the deceased has since been deposited at the Dormaa Ahenkro Presbyterian Hospital morgue for preservation, identification and autopsy.
The Police Command cautioned the public against engaging in acts of violence that could disrupt peace in the area and assured that perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“The command wishes to advise the public to desist from any violent acts that will jeopardise the peace of the area, while efforts are underway to get the perpetrators of the crime apprehended to face the full rigours of the law,” the statement said.
