Police launch investigation into deaths of five in Nsawam sand winning clash

The Eastern South Regional Police Command has initiated an investigation following a deadly shooting incident that claimed five lives at Asiyaw, near Akwane-Dobro in the Nsawam area on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

The police crime scene team, which was dispatched to the location, discovered the bodies of five male adults, all with gunshot wounds. Early investigations suggest that the violence may be linked to ongoing illegal sand mining operations in the area, which have sparked tensions between rival groups.

The police recovered several items from the scene, including two vehicles – a Toyota Tacoma and a Toyota Tundra along with one pump action gun loaded with 17 live cartridges, four empty cartridges, and three 7.62/39mm empty shells. Additionally, five heavy-duty motorbikes were found, further suggesting the involvement of organized groups.

Preliminary reports point to a violent confrontation between two factions engaged in illegal sand mining, fueling concerns of escalating violence in the region.

The bodies of the deceased have been transported to the Police Hospital mortuary in Accra for autopsy and identification.

Authorities have launched an intensive manhunt to apprehend those responsible for the attack, with the police vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice. As the investigation continues, the police have called for any information that could help in resolving the case and preventing further violence in the area.