Tension is running high in Nkotompo, a fishing community within the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of the Western Region, after irate residents confronted and held hostage a group of young men suspected of engaging in “sakawa” rituals.
The dramatic incident unfolded on Saturday, August 23, 2025, when the group—numbering about ten—allegedly dropped a coffin wrapped in a sack into the sea, sparking outrage among locals.
Suspicion of Ritual Practices
Eyewitnesses told EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ that the men arrived in flashy, expensive vehicles and were seen carrying a suspicious load to the shoreline. Dressed in white attire, printed t-shirts marked with mystical symbols, and yellow robes draped around their necks, the group also included one female member.
According to one angry resident, the community’s suspicion was triggered by the secretive manner in which the men disposed of the object.
“We were here this morning when these guys driving expensive vehicles arrived at our beach. They brought something wrapped in a sack from their car and dropped it in the sea. We suspect it’s a human body. We are only asking them to remove it from the sea before they leave our community,” a youth leader fumed.
Another resident vowed that the visitors would not be allowed to leave until the matter was resolved:
“We shall never allow them to go without removing whatever they dropped in the sea. They claim they are coming from Accra. Why did they not leave that sack in any sea along their way, but decided to drop it here? We will not accept this until they bring it out.”
Community Anger and Leadership Intervention
The spectacle quickly drew a crowd, with residents demanding answers and blocking the group’s exit from the community. The unrest forced local leaders to step in to avoid possible violence.
The Assembly Member for Nkotompo, Frederick Acheampong, confirmed the incident to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ.
“Residents in the community are very angry. They called me this morning, reporting that these boys suspected to be into sakawa had come to our beach to drop something in the sea. Whatever it is, we cannot confirm yet. The people want them to remove it from the sea, but we are trying to calm tempers. The chief has also been called in to assist. At the moment, the suspects are being held at the palace as we work towards resolving the issue,” Mr. Acheampong explained.
Group Denies Allegations
In response, the group’s leader, identified as Lord Ackam, strongly denied claims that they were engaging in sakawa rituals. Instead, he described their organization as a spiritual society with long-standing traditions.
“We are a secret group known as the Spiritual Scientists. One of our members has passed away, and as our rituals demand, we have to drop his belongings into the sea,” he clarified.
Other members of the group supported his explanation, stating that what they dropped into the water were symbolic personal belongings of the deceased—items such as rosaries, candles, and clothing—and not a human body as suspected by the residents.
Police and Traditional Authorities Step In
The situation, which had threatened to escalate into mob justice, was eventually brought under control after the intervention of traditional authorities at Nkotompo. The suspects were escorted to the chief’s palace, where discussions were held to ease tensions and prevent violence.
Following the mediation, the young men were handed over to the police for further investigations. Security sources have confirmed to EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ that the case will be thoroughly examined to determine the authenticity of the group’s claims and to maintain law and order in the community.
Background on Sakawa Concerns
In Ghana, the term sakawa refers to a controversial blend of internet-based fraud and traditional spiritual rituals, often linked to wealth acquisition and alleged human sacrifices. Communities have increasingly become vigilant about suspicious activities that appear ritualistic, especially when linked to unexplained deaths or disappearances.
The incident at Nkotompo reflects a growing fear among coastal communities about the misuse of their beaches and waters for ritual practices. Many residents insist that their fishing livelihoods and cultural values must be protected from such activities.
Current Situation
As of today, August 24, 2025, police investigations are ongoing. The community of Nkotompo remains on edge, with residents demanding full disclosure of what was dropped into the sea. Meanwhile, the suspects maintain their innocence, insisting that they were only fulfilling spiritual obligations connected to the passing of one of their members.
STORY BY: KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
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