By Daniel Bampoe
The Eastern Regional Police Command has ordered the closure of the Kukurantumi Police Station in the Abuakwa North Municipality following violent attacks on the facility by irate youth protesting the death of a suspect in custody.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, September 21, 2025, has left Kukurantumi tense, with police personnel withdrawn from the community after protesters hurled stones, clubs, and other weapons at the station.
The mob also attempted to set both the police station and barracks ablaze.
Outrage
The unrest was triggered by the death of Bright Kena, popularly known as D-ball, a young man arrested for alleged unlawful entry and stealing.
According to a police statement, Kena fell ill while under arrest and was admitted at the Kukurantumi Community Hospital, where he later died.
Residents, however, doubted the official account and accused the police of foul play.
News of his death quickly spread across the town, mobilizing dozens of angry youth who stormed the police station to demand accountability.
Police Reinforcement Restores Calm
Eyewitnesses confirmed that the officers on duty were overwhelmed and forced to abandon the station as the protesters advanced.
A reinforcement team from the Eastern Regional Police Command was later deployed to restore calm and prevent further destruction.
The police have since assured the deceased’s family and community leaders of a thorough investigation.
Both the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) have been tasked to probe the circumstances surrounding Kena’s death.
Video Evidence and Arrests Expected
Police officials disclosed that video footage of the attack on the station is under review. Individuals identified in the recordings will be arrested and prosecuted.
Authorities also reminded the public to resort to lawful means of addressing grievances rather than resorting to violence.
Closure of Station Raises Security Concerns
With the Kukurantumi station shut down and its officers withdrawn, concerns are growing over the safety of residents in the town.
Many fear that the absence of a local police presence could embolden criminals and leave the community vulnerable.
Past Tensions Between Communities and Police
This is not the first time the police have faced hostility in parts of the Eastern Region. In recent years, several towns have clashed with law enforcement officers over deaths in custody, allegations of police brutality, and perceived lack of transparency in investigations.
The Kukurantumi incident now adds to a growing list of confrontations that highlight deep-seated mistrust between some communities and the police service.
