Civilian hospitalised after alleged machete attack by prison officers, inmates

A civilian is currently hospitalized in serious condition at the Asutifi North District Hospital following an alleged machete attack by prison officers and inmates, according to officials and the victim. The victim, Opoku Afriyie, a 65-year-old resident of Kenyasi No. 2 who operates a sound system and rides commercial motorbikes, sustained multiple deep injuries during the incident.

On Thursday, as he was transporting a passenger on his motorcycle, Mr Afriyie claims he was intercepted by a prison officer and three inmates from the Kenyasi Settlement Camp Prison. According to the victim, the group accused him of stealing yams from the officer’s farm and attacked him with machetes, inflicting wounds on his arms, legs, abdomen, neck, and other parts of his body.

Subsequently, another prison officer arrived, handcuffed Mr Afriyie, and transported him to the Kenyasi Settlement Camp Prison. Police officers present at the scene reportedly witnessed the extent of his injuries and arranged for his transfer to the Asutifi North District Hospital for medical treatment. Mr Afriyie remains under hospital care, experiencing severe pain in his abdomen, head, eyes, and waist, and has sustained significant damage to his fingers and hands.

The victim has expressed frustration at the lack of arrests in connection with the alleged assault and has called for a thorough investigation, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable and to provide the necessary financial assistance to cover his medical expenses. The Asutifi District Police Command, led by Superintendent Harold Yamoah Ponkor, has initiated an investigation into the incident, with further details expected as the probe continues.