Police arrest over 10 students over Okuapeman-Mount Sinai clashes

Over ten students have been apprehended in connection with violent conflicts between Okuapeman Senior High School and Mount Sinai Senior High School in Akuapem North Municipality, Eastern Region. The confrontations, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, September 2, led to damage caused by fire at numerous facilities on both campuses.

Eastern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Joseph Owusu-Bempah, stated that some of the implicated students have been apprehended, while others are being sought. He assured that those who fled the schools when the police arrived would be traced and arrested. The police are also compiling a comprehensive list of individuals suspected to have taken part in the violence.

Additionally, investigations revealed allegations that certain teachers may have incited students to attack their counterparts. DCOP Owusu-Bempah warned that if their involvement was confirmed, these teachers would be arrested and their names made public. The cause of the clash remains under investigation, with the police examining the circumstances that sparked the violence and the roles played by students and others.

Six students from Okuapeman SHS were injured in the melee; four have been treated and discharged, while two remain under medical care as of Wednesday. Several structures at both institutions were set ablaze or vandalized during the unrest. DCOP Owusu-Bempah appealed to students to return to school and assist the police investigation, warning against interfering with the proceedings, as such actions could hinder the restoration of peace and the identification of those responsible.

The police emphasize that investigations are ongoing, with additional arrests anticipated as they strive to identify all individuals involved in the clashes.