The Ghana Police Service in the Bono Region has restored calm in Akontanim and surrounding communities following the suspected murder of a 23-year-old, Kwabena Agyei, which triggered violent protests by alleged illegal miners.

‎According to a press release issued by the Police Public Affairs Unit in Sunyani on April 14, 2026, preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased, believed to be engaged in illegal mining activities, died after an alleged confrontation with a taskforce from the Dormaa Traditional Area set up to combat galamsey.

‎Police said the incident came to light on April 13 at about 6:10 p.m., when Mr. Bismark Ofori, Area Council Chairman of Akontanim, reported discovering a lifeless body on the outskirts of the town earlier that afternoon.

‎“Police proceeded to the scene and found the body lying at the Akontanim chief’s palace in a supine position, covered with a white bedsheet, with muddy clay smeared on the face, clad in black shorts, with visible marks of assault on the chest and back,” the statement noted.

‎The death sparked unrest later that evening when about 70 persons, believed to be illegal miners, blocked the Kyeremasu section of the Dormaa Ahenkro–Berekum highway, burning car tyres and disrupting traffic. 

‎The group reportedly attacked two police vehicles registration numbers GP 390 and GP 3566 using stones and other objects.

‎Security was restored after a joint Police and Military team intervened to disperse the crowd and clear the road.

‎However, tensions escalated again the following morning, April 14, when approximately 400 suspected illegal miners mounted a similar blockade on the Berekum–Dormaa road, once again halting vehicular movement. 

‎The combined security team swiftly responded and restored order.

‎Police say investigations are underway to identify and arrest those responsible for the suspected murder.

‎“The Command has commenced investigations into the suspected murder incident at Akontanim to get the perpetrators arrested,” the statement said.

‎The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Presbyterian Hospital morgue for preservation, identification, and autopsy.

‎The Police Command has also cautioned the public against engaging in acts of violence that could destabilise the area, assuring that efforts are ongoing to ensure all those responsible for the crime are brought to justice.

‎Sompaonline.com/Derrick Djan