Counting of ballots in the Nkoranza North Constituency by-election has started after voting closed in the 69 polling stations at 5pm, the stipulated time. Voting was generally peaceful except for the reported arrest of some youths believed to be followers of the main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress. The police are yet to prefer charges against those arrested, numbering about 10. Unconfirmed reports say those arrested were not from the constituency but were brought into the area by the NDC to help monitor the polls, but MP for Ave Avenor in the Volta Region, Doe Adjaho said those arrested had committed no crime and accused the police of employing the tactics to intimidate the party’s followers. Correspondents say the police maintained a strong presence at polling centres and conducted random search of cars in the area. Retired Major Derrick Oduro stood on the ticket of the NPP, while a 31-year-old medical doctor Kofi Amoako-Gyambah stood for the NDC. The Democratic People's Party also put up 53–year-old Osei Bonsu Jnr as its candidate. The by-election saw nearly all the big shots of the two main political parties; NPP and NDC virtually resident in the constituency, helping with campaigning and serving in several other roles. Results are expected later on Tuesday night. The seat became vacant following the resignation of the MP for the area, Eric Amoateng who is facing narcotics charges in the USA. Amoateng is still in custody awaiting a formal trial date from the U.S. justice authorities. Speaking to Joy News on Tuesday from his base in the U.S. Dennis Adjei-Brenya, legal counsel for Mr. Amoateng said he had been in touch with Mr. Amoateng over the weekend to brief him about his case. He said Mr. Amoateng was aware of Tuesday's by-election and believed his decision to give up the seat was in the right direction. Mr. Adjei-Brenya said next week should see a meeting with the prosecutor's office to determine a trial date and said though the legal battle might take a while, the legal team was prepared for the task.