Two scrap dealers have been killed by a mob at Ntensere following accusations of attempted child theft, in an incident authorities say highlights the ongoing threat of mob justice in the Ashanti Region.
The victims, identified as Alhasan and Nagolo, had reportedly visited the community to buy scrap materials when residents accused them of trying to steal a three-year-old child. The situation quickly escalated, and the two men were beaten to death. Their motorcycle was also set on fire.
Unit Committee Vice Chairperson Saramatu Zackaria said she arrived at the scene after receiving news of the attack but found that the victims had already been killed.
She condemned the incident and called for a full police investigation, urging residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands.
The Ashanti Regional Scrap Dealers Association also expressed concern, describing the attack as part of a growing pattern targeting its members. Its President, Alhaji Abdulai Gagala, said scrap dealers are increasingly being attacked based on false accusations and called for stronger protection from security agencies.
Police have launched investigations into the killings, and the bodies have been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.
The incident adds to rising concerns about mob justice in Ghana and the need to strengthen public trust in law enforcement and the judicial system.
