A 27-year-old man, Mr. Agbey Mawuko Godwin, popularly known as Sarki, sustained gunshot wounds to his thighs during a traditional Dipo rite at Sawer, a suburb of Somanya in the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred over the weekend as the community observed the Dipo rites — a cultural initiation ceremony for young girls, often accompanied by traditional performances, including musketry displays.
According to Mr. Godwin, his house is located close to the Dipo Rock, the ceremonial grounds where the rites are held. He recounted that while indoors, he heard loud gunfire from the festivities and stepped outside, only to be struck by a stray bullet.
“I was in my room when I heard the gunshots. Suddenly, I felt a sharp pain in my thighs and realised I had been shot,” he said.
A female bystander, upon hearing his screams, rushed to his room and found him bleeding. She reportedly informed him that a firearm had been accidentally discharged by one of the participants while reloading.
Mr. Godwin further explained that the bullet entered through his porch, struck a bowl of water, and penetrated his thighs — also injuring part of his manhood in the process.
He was initially taken to the Atua Government Hospital for treatment. Medical examinations revealed that there were two bullets lodged in his body, which were successfully removed.
Local leaders, including a community chief and an assemblyman, initially attempted to resolve the matter privately, but the police were later notified. The Somanya District Police Commander, Mr. Abrokwa Kingsley, confirmed that the suspect has since been invited for questioning while investigations continue.
Meanwhile, Mr. James Knowels, the employer of the victim, is demanding justice and financial compensation for Mr. Godwin, describing him as the sole breadwinner of his family.
“He is supporting his younger brother in senior high school and sponsoring his sister through nursing training. If he is not compensated and supported during his recovery, the family will suffer,” Mr. Knowels stated.
Police investigations into the incident are still ongoing.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
