Anger as prime suspect in Akwatialine in the Ashanti Region demolition shooting misses court

Family members of 23-year-old Abdul Salam, who was shot and killed during a demolition exercise at Akwatialine in the Ashanti Region, have expressed anger and disappointment after the prime suspect failed to appear in court.

Abdul Salam was killed on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, when a demolition exercise on disputed land currently under litigation turned violent. The incident left three people with gunshot wounds.

Two of the victims were treated and discharged, but Abdul Salam later succumbed to his injuries.

Police investigations led to the arrest of four individuals. Three were reportedly granted bail, while the fourth suspect, Umar Abdullahi, was arraigned before the Asokore Mampong District Court and remanded into police custody. He was expected to reappear in court today, April 17, 2026.

However, during proceedings, the suspect was not presented before the court, raising concerns among the deceased’s family.

The victim’s mother, who was present in court, broke down in tears as she pleaded for swift justice and an end to delays in the case.

She said her son had been the family’s sole breadwinner, leaving them in severe hardship after his death.

“He was my only hope. I have no one else. He was my first son and the one caring for his siblings and me since their father passed away. I am pleading with the government to intervene and ensure justice is served,” she said

Meanwhile, some members of the Sheep and Goat Market Association appeared in court dressed in black and red, wearing red armbands and headgear. Holding placards reading “Justice for Abdul Salam,” they chanted in unison.

They called on the police and the Interior Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament for the Asawase Constituency, to ensure the case is expedited.