Nine remanded over deadly Nkwanta riots

Nine individuals, including a woman, have been remanded into custody by an Accra Circuit Court for their alleged roles in the violent riots that erupted in Nkwanta, located in Ghana’s Oti Region.

The accused—Evans Mawugbe, Donkor Ebenezer, Solomon Amenu, Robert Dzanka, Kenyenso Senyo, Edwin Yeboah, Yudah Adule, Keteke Joshua, and Grace Ordzi—are facing serious charges including conspiracy to commit crime, causing harm, rioting, and rioting with weapons.

Their pleas were not taken during the court sitting, and presiding judge Isaac Addo ordered that they be held in lawful custody until their next appearance on July 21, 2025.

Prosecutor ASP Seth Frimpong informed the court that the investigation remains active, with additional suspects still at large.

The alleged incident occurred on June 26, 2025, during a period of curfew imposed to maintain order in the conflict-prone town. According to the prosecution, the accused persons attempted to perform rituals at the Yam Market, a move that sparked chaos and led to violent confrontations.

Gunshots reportedly rang out during the unrest, resulting in injuries to several individuals including Emmanuel Popolampo, Azumah Angela, a man identified only as Akwasi aka “Commando,” and a woman named Ruth.

Tragically, one male victim who sustained gunshot wounds was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital. His identity has not yet been released.

A joint team of police, military personnel, and National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) officers responded swiftly to the scene, managing to arrest the nine accused while several other individuals evaded capture.

The case remains under investigation as security forces work to apprehend additional suspects and restore lasting calm to the troubled township.