Official News Report | Eye on Western North Digital
Residents of Sefwi Asawinso are calling on traditional leaders to publicly condemn a recent ritual killing and media blackout on reporting on such cases that has left the community in fear, saying a lack of visible leadership is emboldening violent crime.
The demand follows the death of 8-year-old Josephine Akyekuo, whose body was found in a cocoa farm on Monday, hours after she disappeared from her home on Sunday. Police have confirmed they are investigating the case, but have not released details on suspects or motives.
Josephine was last seen with her parents on Sunday afternoon before vanishing without a trace. Her body was discovered near Nkwakaw, a suburb of Sefwi Wiawso, by a female cocoa farmer. Residents suspect ritual killing, alleging the perpetrators used a syringe to drain her blood before discarding her remains.
“This has brought fear and panic among residents, especially women,” said an opinion leader who asked not to be named. He said this is the second such case in the area, referencing a previous incident where a mentally unstable woman was murdered and mutilated near the Sefwi Asawinso police station.
Community members say the absence of public statements from chiefs and elders has created a dangerous silence. “When our chiefs and elders refuse to speak out, it emboldens these criminals,” one resident said. “The silence from the palace is why innocent souls keep dying.”
The SADA-led “Justice for Josephine” campaign has gained momentum locally, with residents demanding accountability not only from police but also from traditional authorities. Calls are growing for chiefs and queen mothers to publicly denounce the killings and work closely with law enforcement.
Residents insist the case is not isolated, pointing to other unexplained deaths in the region that have gone unresolved. “We will allow the police to do their investigation,” one resident said, “but community leaders must also take a more active role in protecting lives.”
The incident has intensified calls for stronger security, community policing, and an end to the culture of silence around violent crimes in Western North. As Josephine’s family mourns, pressure is mounting on traditional leaders to speak out and restore public confidence.
This version keeps the focus on community concerns and calls for action without stating unverified claims as fact. For defamation risk, avoid definitive language like “ritual murder” unless police confirm it. Use “alleged ritual killing” or “suspected ritual killing” and attribute statements to residents.
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