The Krachi East Divisional Police Command has disarmed a mentally impaired man who was roaming the streets brandishing a pistol loaded with live ammunition, posing a serious threat to public safety.
The swift and coordinated response by the police team, led by the Divisional Commander, averted what could have been a major tragedy and has since earned the officers widespread commendation from residents.
Mr Charles Awuranyi of the Dambai Central Assembly told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that he spotted the man walking through the streets with the pistol and immediately alerted the police for intervention.
Eyewitness Mr Gyan Kwadwo Mensah described the incident as tense, recounting how the police chased the man through a public cemetery before overpowering him and retrieving the weapon.
“The police had to struggle with the mentally ill man before successfully disarming him,” Mr Mensah said.
Another eyewitness, Mr Mathew Binchaya Nwonbi, praised the police for the special tactics they deployed to retrieve the gun.
He said the man, a familiar figure in the area, was known for unusual behaviour, often approaching people with the request: “Bossu, give me GHC10 to buy 5-Star drink.” According to him, it was clear the individual was not an average beggar.
Residents have since hailed the police officers as heroes and are appealing to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to recognize their bravery and consider them for promotions.
“The police used their training and efforts to retrieve the gun from the man, and they deserve our appreciation,” Madam Juliana Afua Agbosu added.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, Public Affairs Officer of the Oti Regional Police Command, confirmed the incident to the GNA, stating that the police have launched investigations to determine how the man acquired the pistol.
