Police in the Oti Region have arrested a hunter following the fatal shooting of a local man in the Nyagbo Kume Forest. The victim, identified as Mr. Zebio, was a resident of the Nyagbo Konda community and was reportedly engaged in picking mushrooms when the tragic incident occurred. The suspect is currently in custody as law enforcement officials begin a formal investigation into the circumstances of the death.
The incident took place during the early hours of Wednesday morning, at approximately 04:45 hours. According to preliminary reports, the hunter was active in the forest when he discharged his firearm, later claiming that he had mistaken Mr. Zebio for wild game. The Assembly member for the area, Mr. Theophilus Doh, confirmed the details of the shooting to local news outlets, expressing shock over the loss of life under such avoidable circumstances.
In the wake of the tragedy, members of the Nyagbo Konda community have expressed deep concern regarding safety in the forest, which is frequently used by locals for gathering food and other resources. Residents are calling for improved regulations and oversight of hunting activities to ensure that those entering the forest for non-hunting purposes are protected. The police have echoed these sentiments, issuing a stern reminder to all hunters to verify their targets and strictly observe safety regulations before discharging weapons.
The case remains under active investigation by the local police command. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as they conclude their inquiry and determine the appropriate legal charges. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding hunting safety in rural areas where human activity often overlaps with traditional hunting grounds and resource gathering.