Police warn Okuapem, Mount Sinai students: ringleaders will be prosecuted

Police in the Eastern Region have issued a strong warning to students of Okuapem Senior High School and Mount Sinai Senior High School, indicating that authorities are focusing on individuals believed to have orchestrated recent violent disturbances between the two institutions.

Speaking during an engagement with students, Eastern Regional Police Commander DCOP Joseph Owusu-Bempah said investigators were not interested in treating the entire student population as offenders but were working to identify those who planned, organised or led the confrontations.

His remarks come as police continue investigations into clashes that resulted in injuries, property damage and the arrest of several students.

The commander urged students to distance themselves from acts of violence and avoid becoming involved in retaliatory attacks, stressing that participation in group misconduct would not shield offenders from accountability.

He also encouraged students to report information about planned disturbances to school authorities, arguing that early intervention could prevent situations from escalating into major security incidents.

Particular concern was raised over reports that some students allegedly attacked police officers responding to the disturbances. DCOP Owusu-Bempah described such actions as criminal offences and warned that law enforcement personnel would not hesitate to take action against individuals who assault officers carrying out their duties.

Beyond the immediate investigation, the police commander appealed to both schools to redefine their rivalry through positive achievements rather than confrontation. He urged students to focus on academic excellence, sports and other productive activities that would enhance the reputation of their institutions.

The warning also extended to former students and other outsiders who may attempt to influence current students to engage in violence. According to the commander, those found encouraging unrest would equally face scrutiny from investigators.

Police say efforts are ongoing to identify all individuals connected to the disturbances, with authorities determined to ensure that those responsible are held accountable while restoring calm to both school communities.

Source: myjoyonline.com