Treat Okuapeman-Mount Sinai violent clash as criminal matter – Akuapem North MP

Akuapem North Member of Parliament Samuel Awuku has called for a criminal investigation into violent clashes between Okuapeman Senior High School (OKUASS) and Mount Sinai Senior High School. In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, he emphasized that students should face consequences for their actions, and their parents should also be held accountable for the damage caused.

Awuku described the destruction of school property as "barbaric" and insisted that the incident should be treated as a criminal matter rather than an issue for the schools or the local assembly to resolve. He noted that while rivalry between the schools exists due to sporting and other competitions, it had never escalated to the level of violence seen in the recent incident.

The two schools are situated adjacent to each other without a separating wall, which he believes has contributed to the escalation of tensions. Awuku expressed his intention to visit both schools alongside the education directorate to assess the extent of the damage. He highlighted the extensive destruction caused by the students and stressed the necessity of accountability to restore the affected areas.

The Ghana Police Service, teachers, headmasters, and education officials have been working diligently to restore calm. Awuku commended their efforts, recognizing the police intervention in controlling the situation. Following the incident, students have been asked to return home temporarily while authorities take measures to address the situation.

Okuapeman Senior High School suffered damage to its Visual Arts studio, a teachers' office, and seven classrooms, with fire also destroying examination papers and certificates, injuring six students who were hospitalized. Mount Sinai Senior High School experienced damage to a storeroom and the boys' washroom. The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) subsequently directed that both schools be temporarily closed.

Awuku expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their efforts in restoring calm and called upon parents to speak to their children about the consequences of violence and property destruction during their time at home.