COMMOTION AT KUMASI PRISONS

An attempted jail break last night at the Kumasi Central Prisons has led to one inmate dead and several others injured. 

Some police and prison officers who were called in to help save life and property also sustained various degree of injuries and have been treated and discharged at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. 

A fire outbreak that occurred simultaneously in one of the cells was also brought under control.  Items destroyed included cooking utensils, television sets, chairs and office equipment and documents.

 A visit to the Central Prisons by our correspondent showed tight security presence to ensure that the prevailing peace in the facility is sustained. 

The Regional Security Council led by its chairman and Regional Minister, Dr. Samuel Sarpong has visited the premises to assess the extent of damage and identify causes of the incident. 

The Regional Prisons Public Relations Officer, ASP James Annan told the media that the incident occurred at about 8 pm. 

He said the officers on duty heard some screams in one of the cells, of which they attempted to maintain law and order. 

Unfortunately, there was a fire outbreak that they had to attend to. 

ASP Annan said the military and police reinforcement was quickly called in.

 However, an inmate who attempted to attack an officer was shot and killed.

 The Regional Minister, Dr. Sarpong told the media that REGSEC will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the way forward. 

He said the Director of Prisons is expected in Kumasi soon.

 Dr. Sarpong indicated that there is a decision to relocate some of the prisoners in an attempt to decongest the prisons, which is currently housing over two thousand inmates, instead of 700.