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Seven people have been arrested in the Tempane District of the Upper East Region in connection with the killing of two elderly women accused of witchcraft at Sumaduri.
The deceased, identified as Mariama Jato, 58, and Naachuagutugu Dunwaag, 75, were allegedly beaten to death by a group of farmers from the Sumadui community after they were blamed for a series of family misfortunes. The suspects, identified by police as A1 to A7, are said to be relatives and close associates of the victims.
Police said the incident occurred on January 18, 2026, at about 12:30 p.m., when the Tempane District Police Command received a distress call reporting that two elderly women had been violently assaulted by their children and close relatives.
According to police investigations, the suspects, in an attempt to seek spiritual confirmation, consulted A8, a pastor of the Voice of Healing Assembly Church in the community. Police said the pastor allegedly affirmed the witchcraft allegations against the victims.
Following the consultation, the suspects allegedly armed themselves with sticks and belts and assaulted the two women, inflicting severe injuries that led to their deaths.
The District Chief Executive for Tempane, Mr. Mbilla Joseph Ayaaba, has condemned the incident, describing it as “very disheartening and unacceptable in a modern society.” Briefing the media, he said acts of mob justice and witchcraft accusations have no place in the community.
Mr. Ayaaba said he contacted the police to confirm that the matter had been officially reported and was assured that the authorities had retrieved the bodies, commenced investigations and released the bodies to the families for burial.
He noted that initial attempts to arrest the suspects were unsuccessful as they had gone into hiding, but subsequent police operations led to their arrest. He commended the police for their swift action and urged residents to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies.
The DCE called on the public to report any suspected criminal activity to the authorities, stressing the need to uphold peace, security and respect for human life in the district.
The police are currently holding the suspects to assist in further investigations and possible prosecution. The suspects have since been arraigned before a Bolgatanga court, while residents continue to call for justice for the deceased.
Source: Ghana/channel247online.com/IddrisuKassim
