The Adonteng Mmratohene of Akyem Kukurantumi, Barimah Owusu Frimpong, has confirmed that the young man whose death sparked violent clashes in the town was severely assaulted by police officers before being taken to a clinic, where he later died.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem on Monday, September 22, 2025, the chief recounted that he was at home when an assembly member called to alert him about disturbances in the community.
Upon rushing to the scene, he was informed that a resident of his, Bright, popularly known as ‘D-Ball,’ had died after a confrontation with the police.
Watch viral videos of the clash between the Police and the youth of Kukurantumi
“The truth is that the police beat him mercilessly. He was rushed to a community clinic in Kukurantumi, and it was there that he passed on,” Barimah Owusu Frimpong disclosed.
He also explained that the deceased had earlier been accused of stealing a television, an issue he had advised should be reported to the police to avoid the perception that chiefs were shielding wrongdoing.
That matter was later resolved when the TV was returned, and apologies were offered by the suspect’s family.
However, the chief added that new information suggested the deceased was also suspected of drug peddling, leading to his arrest on Sunday morning.
According to him, the arrest turned violent when the suspect allegedly stabbed a community police assistant, prompting officers to assault him severely, leading to his death.
The incident triggered outrage among the youth, who besieged the Kukurantumi Police Station, vandalised properties, hurled stones at officers, and attempted to set the building ablaze.
Kukurantumi police station burnt by angry youth
Reinforcement from Koforidua was deployed to restore order.
“They pelted stones, and I learned one of the policemen sustained injuries,” the chief added.
Police personnel have since been withdrawn from the town, leaving only a few officers guarding the station, amid threats from residents.
Calm has now returned, with daily activities resuming.
The chief further confirmed that traditional authorities would meet the bereaved family to discuss the way forward and ensure peace in Kukurantumi.
MRA/AE
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