No One Has the Right to Attack Police – Amoakohene Condemns Jacobu Clash
Ashanti Regional Minister condemns violence against police following fatal Jacobu incident
- Dr. Frank Amoakohene says no individual or group has the right to attack police officers
- One person died and others were injured during a clash between residents and police in Jacobu
- Authorities are engaging the community as investigations into the incident continue
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has strongly condemned a violent confrontation between suspected illegal mining operators and the police at Jacobu in the Amansie Central District of the Ashanti Region.
Describing the incident as unfortunate and avoidable, Dr. Amoakohene stressed that no individual or group has the right to mobilise or attack police officers, noting that the police have a constitutional mandate to maintain peace and security across the country.
The confrontation reportedly resulted in the death of one person, while several others sustained injuries.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, January 26, the Regional Minister said the incident occurred over the weekend and involved some residents of Jacobu and police personnel.
“I must condemn, without fear of contradiction, the mobilisation and attack on men in uniform. No one has the right to do that. That confrontation was avoidable, and any loss of life is deeply regrettable,” he stated.
Dr. Amoakohene extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that processes for the release of the body would be expedited, while investigations continue.
“The Municipal Chief Executive has engaged the family, and although they are remorseful and seeking access to the body, investigations and due process must be followed,” he added.
He also cautioned the youth against confronting law enforcement officers directly, urging them to use lawful channels to address grievances.
“If you have any problem, do not confront the police. They are your friends. There are legal avenues to resolve issues rather than mobilising and attacking men in uniform,” he said.
Dr. Amoakohene noted that authorities are engaging the community to ensure cooperation and support ongoing investigations.
According to a police statement posted on Facebook on January 24, the incident occurred on Thursday, January 23, 2026, during a routine patrol.
The police said officers had earlier retrieved a pump-action gun from a 15-year-old boy and directed him to ask the owner to report to the police station with the required documentation. While returning from the patrol, the officers were reportedly confronted by a crowd of about 100 people who blocked the road.
Some members of the group, allegedly armed with cutlasses and firearms, assaulted the officers and seized a service rifle. In the ensuing confrontation, the individual who took possession of the rifle was shot by the police, while another suspect sustained injuries. The police confirmed that the service rifle was later recovered.
