Residents and opinion leaders in Barniekrom, located in the Ahafo Ano South West District of the Ashanti Region, are calling for police protection following a tragic shooting incident that resulted in the deaths of four individuals so far.

The victims, youths from a nearby community, were allegedly shot by a local fetish priest who claimed they were part of a group attempting to attack him.

The incident occurred in a secluded area of Barniekrom near the residence of the suspect, Osman Majeed, a fetish priest. 

Three of the young men died instantly at the scene on Tuesday, July 2, while a fourth, said to be part of the group succumbed to gunshot wounds later. 

Bloodstains and bullet cartridges were still visible at the scene a day after the incident, highlighting the severity of the violence.

The shooting has created significant fear among Barniekrom residents.

Farmers who normally use the path where the incident occurred avoided their farms on Wednesday, July 3, and a nearby school was temporarily closed for safety concerns. Despite a semblance of calm in the area, the community remains on edge.

Opinion leaders in Barniekrom are urging authorities to provide police protection to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of the residents. 

They believe that visible law enforcement presence is necessary to restore confidence and security within the community.

Osman Majeed is said to be on the run, and police are actively searching for him. 

The bodies of the deceased were retrieved by the police and have been deposited at the morgue as investigation continues.