Assin-Asaman: A police officer identified as Constable John Kwabena Dogbe, with the Central North Command, tragically slipped and drowned in the Offin River during a swoop on illegal miners at Assin-Asaman in the Fosu Municipality of the Central Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, information gathered from the community and some police sources indicated that the deceased, along with two other officers, slipped while attempting to join a canoe on the River Offin to arrest illegal miners operating across the river. It was noted that all three officers were wearing bulletproof jackets but not life jackets.
The body of Constable Dogbe was recovered after a four-hour intensive search and has been deposited at St Francis Xavier Hospital in Assin Fosu. The police source explained that the operation was conducted by the Central North Regional Police Command as part of its ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining activities in the area. However, upon reaching the galamsey site, the illegal miners swam across the flowing river.
The unfortunate incident occurred when the police attempted to cross the river by canoe, aiming to evacuate and destroy equipment, including changfang and water pumping machines, used by the miners. Meanwhile, the Central Regional Police Command expressed its deepest condolences to the family of Constable Dogbe, recognizing his bravery and sacrifices. They emphasized that his efforts will not be forgotten, as he gave his life in the line of duty, fighting to protect the environment and uphold the law.
The command stated, "His legacy will serve as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by law enforcement officers in their quest to keep communities safe." They added that the operation will continue in order to help safeguard the environment.
