A shooting incident occurred at the Ho Central Mosque in the Volta Region of Ghana on Friday, resulting in at least 10 people sustaining gunshot wounds. The attack, which took place during Friday prayers, is believed to have been sparked by a long-standing leadership crisis within the mosque.
According to eyewitnesses, five masked assailants stormed the mosque at 9 a.m., demanding the keys to the building. In the process, they allegedly fired shots, injuring the victims and causing chaos. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the leadership crisis, which has been ongoing for nearly two years, may have been the trigger for the attack.
The conflict is reportedly over the position of the regional Chief Imam, which was only recently resolved in late 2025. Three residents of the Zongo community in Ho, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Ghanaian Times that they strongly believe the attack was a result of this leadership dispute.
A total of 15 suspects have been taken into police custody pending further investigations. The injured were taken to the Ho Teaching Hospital, where they received medical attention. Dr. Edward Agyekum, Head of the Accident and Emergency Unit, confirmed that 10 victims were brought to the unit, all of whom suffered gunshot wounds and had pellets removed from their bodies.
The pellets were mainly removed from the legs and thighs of the injured, with one victim requiring close medical observation due to the severity of their injuries. Dr. Agyekum explained that the victim had pellets that passed through their thighs and ended up in the right lower side of the abdomen, requiring extra medical attention. The rest of the injured were treated and discharged on the same day.
The incident highlights the need for resolution of long-standing conflicts and the importance of maintaining peace and stability in communities. The police are continuing their investigations into the matter, and the community is calling for calm and restraint. The attack has sent shockwaves through the region, and authorities are working to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.