The Eastern South Regional Police Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into a fatal shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of five individuals at Asiyaw, near Akwane-Dobro in the Nsawam area, on Tuesday, 29 April 2025.

In a statement issued by the police, a forensic team dispatched to the scene discovered the lifeless bodies of five adult males bearing gunshot wounds.

The incident has heightened concerns about rising tensions associated with illegal sand winning activities in the area.

Items retrieved from the scene include a Toyota Tacoma, a Toyota Tundra, one pump-action shotgun loaded with 17 live cartridges, four spent cartridges, three empty 7.62/39mm shells, a single 9mm shell, and five heavy-duty motorbikes.

Initial findings suggest the deadly encounter was the result of a violent clash between two rival factions allegedly competing for control over sand mining operations in the vicinity.

The deceased have since been conveyed to the Police Hospital mortuary in Accra for preservation, formal identification, and autopsy.