Police have arrested 34 suspects following a violent clash during the Odwira Festival at Ahwerease near Aburi in the Eastern Region, which led to the death of one man.
The incident, which stemmed from a long-standing chieftaincy dispute, occurred on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.
According to police reports, tensions rose when traditional leaders gathered to perform rituals to lift the ban on noise-making, marking the start of the Odwira celebration.
A disagreement broke out between the Abokomahene of the Asona family, Nana Semenyia Akrofa, and the Bemuhene of Ahwerease over who had the authority to conduct the ceremony.
The confrontation quickly turned chaotic as some youth at the scene fired gunshots.
Four people were hit, one fatally. The others were taken to the Aburi Hospital and are receiving treatment.
Police intervened swiftly to restore calm and arrested the 34 suspects, who are now assisting with investigations at the Aburi Police Station.
Two weapons, including a pump-action gun and a pistol, were recovered.
Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh, the Eastern Regional Police PRO, condemned the violence and assured the public of firm police action.
“We will ensure that peace prevails before, during, and after the festival. Anyone who tries to disturb the peace will face the full force of the law,” he stated.
Ahwerase Osiahene Nana Owusu Anakwah Ntow said traditional leaders are engaging all sides to restore lasting peace and prevent further conflict.
An uneasy calm has since returned to the community.
