Tensions are escalating in Dodenyu, a village situated near Hohoe in the Volta Region, following alleged gunfire by the police.

This incident, which took place on August 30, 2023, has resulted in the unfortunate death of one individual and multiple injuries among residents.

The event unfolded on a Wednesday morning when law enforcement officers attempted to apprehend a man believed to be transporting Indian hemp from his farm.

The man managed to evade capture by fleeing into a village house on his motorcycle.

Subsequently, it is claimed that the police opened fire indiscriminately, leading to the loss of life for one resident and causing injuries to several others.

Additionally, reports suggest that the police set fire to all visible motorcycles.

In response, certain community members purportedly retaliated by setting fire to one of the four police vehicles present. Those who sustained injuries are currently receiving medical treatment at a local hospital, while the deceased individual's body has been transferred to the morgue.

The Member of Parliament representing the area has been notified about the incident, prompting the initiation of a police investigation. Fearful of further harm, many residents have confined themselves to their homes, reluctant to venture out due to concerns of potential harm.

According to an account provided by a resident named Francis Kakraba, stated that, “in the morning around 10:am, I heard some gunshots. I rushed out and saw some people screaming, the police after failing to arrest a farmer who was returning from his farm suspected to be carrying Indian hemp rushed to the community, and started shooting. Their vehicles caught fire in the process. Some people sustained injuries and others have died.”

The incident has ignited a wave of anger among the residents, who are now demanding justice for the victims. Simultaneously, they are advocating for an end to police brutality within the vicinity.