A violent confrontation linked to illegal mining activities at Akyem Nkwanum New Market in the Eastern Region has left one man in critical condition after his hand was severed during a cutlass attack.
The incident reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding between a security officer and workers at a galamsey site in the area.
Speaking to Adom News, Assemblyman for the Akyem Aboabo Electoral Area in the Birim Central Municipality, Emmanuel Appiah Kubi, said tensions escalated after the security officer allegedly shot one of the workers during the initial confrontation at the mining site.
According to him, the situation took a more violent turn when the parties later returned to town.
Mr. Kubi explained that some colleagues of the injured worker allegedly spotted the security officer and attacked him in retaliation, triggering a fierce cutlass battle.
“The confusion started at the galamsey site between the security officer and the workers. The security man allegedly pulled a gun and shot one of the workers. Later, when they returned to town, the worker’s colleagues saw the security officer and attacked him, leading to the cutlass fight,” he said.
During the clash, one of the individuals involved suffered severe injuries after his hand was cut off. He is currently receiving treatment and is said to be in critical condition.
Meanwhile, security analyst Paul Boateng has called on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly over the incident.
He argued that individuals seen publicly wielding dangerous weapons such as cutlasses must face the same legal consequences as those who brandish firearms.
Police have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
