Wildlife guard shot dead by suspected poacher in Ghana's Kakum Forest Reserve

A wildlife guard on patrol in Ghana's Kakum Forest Reserve has been killed by a suspected poacher. Richard Otwey, 58, was on duty with two colleagues when they discovered two men hunting illegally within the protected area.

The incident occurred on Saturday, August 22, 2026, in the Assin Kruwa section of the reserve. According to preliminary police reports, the guards attempted to apprehend the hunters. One of the suspects, identified as Bukari Abudu, allegedly fired a single-barrel gun at Otwey, striking him in the chest and killing him instantly.

Following the shooting, the two suspects fled into the forest. The patrol team pursued them, successfully arresting John Mensah. Bukari Abudu remains at large, and police are actively seeking his capture. Authorities recovered a spent cartridge, footprints, and a single-barrel gun at the scene.

Otwey's body was transported to the Abura Dunkwa Government Hospital morgue. Chief Superintendent Edmund Agyemang Badu, the Central North Regional Crime Officer, confirmed the incident and stated that the arrested suspect is assisting with the ongoing investigation. Police are urging the public to provide any information that may lead to the apprehension of the fugitive suspect.

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The Police can confirm the killing, but we cannot comment further as investigations are ongoing.