The group, known for terrorizing locals in the area, was confronted after brazenly carrying out criminal activities in broad daylight.
The incident occurred in the town of Dambai, where residents had long complained about the escalating attacks. According to eyewitnesses, the thugs, armed with guns and machetes, were robbing market vendors and harassing travelers when the police arrived.
“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Akosua Nyame, a trader who witnessed the incident. “They were fearless, threatening everyone with their weapons. But then the police came, and everything changed.”
Regional Police Commander Chief Superintendent Samuel Tetteh confirmed the incident during a press briefing.
“Our officers acted in response to multiple reports of violent activities. Upon arrival, the suspects opened fire on our team, forcing us to return fire in self-defense,” he said.
The gunfight lasted several minutes, with the police eventually overpowering the assailants. All six men were pronounced dead at the scene. Two police officers sustained minor injuries during the operation and are receiving treatment at a local hospital.
“These men had been on our radar for months,” Chief Superintendent Tetteh explained. “They were part of a notorious gang responsible for robberies, assaults, and creating fear in the community. Today’s action was necessary to restore peace and safety.”
After the confrontation, police retrieved a cache of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, and machetes, from the suspects. Bags of stolen goods, including cash and jewelry, were also recovered and are being cataloged for return to their rightful owners.
Residents expressed relief and gratitude to the police for taking decisive action.
“We’ve lived in fear for too long,” said Kofi Yeboah, a farmer in the community. “They would attack us even in broad daylight, and no one felt safe. The police have done a great job today.”
However, some human rights advocates have called for a thorough investigation into the use of lethal force.
“While it’s essential to address crime, we must ensure that police operations comply with human rights standards,” said a representative of the Ghana Human Rights Advocacy Group.
The police have assured the public that they acted within the bounds of the law. “Our officers were left with no choice after the suspects initiated gunfire,” Chief Superintendent Tetteh reiterated.
This operation comes amid a renewed crackdown on crime in the Oti Region, with law enforcement pledging to eliminate criminal elements threatening public safety.
Source: Ghanaweb