Six people, including a woman and her toddler, sustained injuries after being struck by stray bullets during a celebratory gunfire incident at Kwabenakwa in the Obuasi East District of the Ashanti Region.
The incident occurred on Monday, October 14, 2025, after a man identified as Kofi Cole, allegedly fired gunshots into the air to celebrate a court ruling that favored his faction in a longstanding chieftaincy dispute.
Eyewitness Account
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect, upon hearing the favorable verdict, mobilized some relatives, boarded a tricycle (pragyia), and began a jubilation tour across the community. During the celebration, he reportedly discharged multiple rounds of live ammunition, causing panic and chaos.
Unfortunately, six innocent residents were hit by stray bullets, including a mother and her baby who were struck while standing outside their home.
The victims were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment. Four of them have since been treated and discharged, while the mother and her toddler, who was shot in the leg, were transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for further medical care.
Community Reaction
Speaking to reporters, Charles Abu, the Assemblyman for the Kwabenakwa Electoral Area, confirmed the incident and identified the suspect as a troublesome individual with a history of causing disturbances in the area.
“This is the first time I’ve heard about him firing shots, but he has often caused trouble in the area,” Mr. Abu said.
He added that the community is living in fear following the shooting and called on security authorities to intensify patrols and arrest the suspect to restore peace and order.
Police Response
The Obuasi East District Police Command has launched a manhunt for Kofi Cole, who remains on the run. Police officials have assured residents that investigations are ongoing and vowed to bring the perpetrator to justice.
The shooting incident has reignited concerns about illegal gun possession and reckless celebratory firing in parts of the Ashanti Region, a practice that has led to injuries and deaths in previous years.
