Three teenagers, aged between 15 and 17, have been arrested by police in Akuapem Adukrom, in the Okere District of the Eastern Region, for allegedly murdering a 15-year-old JHS 3 pupil following a dispute over GHC10.
Information gathered indicate that the incident occurred after a heated argument earlier in the day between the suspects and another boy over the missing money.
The deceased, identified as Richard Konnor, had intervened to stop a fight that broke out between the parties.
Later that evening, around 9:30 p.m., while Richard stepped out to buy food, he was reportedly ambushed in a dark corner by the suspects. Eyewitnesses say one of them struck his head with a machete, causing a fatal injury. He collapsed and bled profusely.
Richard was rushed to the Okere Government Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The three suspects, known in the community for their deviant behavior and alleged addiction to a substance called “Red”, have since been taken into custody as investigations continue.
The grieving family of the deceased has demanded justice. His mother, Abiba Adobea, in an emotional interview, called for swift legal action, insisting her son was innocent and only tried to stop a fight.
The Assembly Member for the Adumkore Electoral Area, Hon. William Anokye, has expressed deep concern over the rising levels of youth violence in the area. He blamed the growing trend on single parenting, drug abuse, and a lack of strong community structures to support and discipline young people.
“We need a holistic, community-driven approach to address youth indiscipline and the abuse of illicit drugs,” he said.
Some residents have also echoed similar sentiments, calling on local authorities, parents, and religious bodies to join hands in tackling what they describe as a growing menace in the community.
Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and justice will be served.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
