The Ashanti North Regional Police Commander, ACP Cephas Arthur, has defended the actions of police officers involved in a shooting incident at Jacobu in the Amansie Central District, stating that officers could not allow a civilian to possess a lethal weapon in a public space.
ACP Arthur expressed concern over the death of the illegal miner but emphasised that the police only intended to disable him after he allegedly snatched a police firearm and attempted to flee.
“The intention was not to shoot and kill him. The deceased was bolting with the police assault rifle, so the intention was to demobilise him so that the weapon could be retrieved,” he explained.
Speaking to journalists, ACP Arthur said the incident would be thoroughly investigated and that appropriate action would be taken where necessary.
“In the course of trying to take possession of the weapon, he fell… we cannot allow such a lethal weapon in the hands of somebody who is not trained to use it,” he added.
The incident has sparked controversy, with reports indicating that three other individuals sustained gunshot wounds.
According to reports, the victims allegedly snatched a police assault rifle and attempted to flee, prompting officers to open fire.
