A tragic case of mob justice unfolded in Kotwi, a town within the Atwima Kwanwoma District of the Ashanti Region, after an unknown young man suspected of snatching mobile phones was brutally lynched by irate residents.
According to information received from a reliable source, the man, believed to be in his early thirties, was accused of stealing mobile phones from unsuspecting victims in the area. In a swift but violent reaction, some community members pursued and attacked him, eventually stoning him to death before law enforcement could intervene.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout Kotwi, with many residents expressing concern over the rising trend of vigilante justice. While acknowledging the frustration stemming from increased petty crimes such as phone snatching, several residents condemned the mob action, stressing that taking the law into one’s own hands can have dire consequences.
“We understand the anger, but this is not the way to handle such matters. Mob justice is dangerous and can lead to innocent people losing their lives. We must trust the police to do their work,” one resident lamented.
Community leaders, including the Assembly Member for the Kotwi Twenease Electoral Area, Sir John, have called for immediate police intervention to restore calm and ensure the safety of all residents. He urged the Ghana Police Service to increase patrols and strengthen community policing to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“We appeal to the police to act swiftly. People must be encouraged to report suspects to the authorities rather than taking matters into their own hands,” Sir John said. He added that mob justice not only undermines the rule of law but also tarnishes the image of the peaceful community they have worked hard to build.
The Unit Committee Chairman for the area also emphasized the need for public education on the dangers of mob justice and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
Authorities are yet to officially comment on the matter, but residents are hopeful that investigations will be launched promptly and that steps will be taken to prevent further incidents.
The body of the deceased has since been conveyed by police for further investigations.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
