Tension gripped a quiet Muslim community in Accra on Friday following a violent altercation inside a local mosque that left two worshippers seriously injured.
The incident, which occurred during early morning prayers, saw an imam allegedly stabbing two congregants in a dispute over mosque leadership, according to the Ghana Police Service.
Eyewitnesses say the scuffle broke out moments after the Fajr prayers when a heated verbal exchange turned physical.
The suspect, identified only as Oki Bin Oki, is said to have pulled out a sharp object and attacked two men, aged 32 and 45, causing panic among other worshippers.
Both victims sustained deep stab wounds and were rushed to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where they remain in critical but stable condition.
According to police sources, the dispute had been simmering for weeks over who rightfully held spiritual leadership of the mosque.
Tensions reportedly escalated when a group of worshippers questioned the imam’s legitimacy and called for a fresh appointment. This, investigators believe, may have triggered the violent outburst.
“We received a distress call from residents in the early hours and immediately dispatched officers to the scene,” said Chief Superintendent Isaac Owusu of the Accra Regional Police Command. “The suspect was arrested on the spot and is currently in custody assisting with investigations.”
Local residents described the incident as shocking and unprecedented. “This is a house of peace, and we never imagined such violence could take place here,” said Alhaji Musa, a community elder. “We urge the police to get to the bottom of this and ensure justice is served.”
Religious leaders across the region have condemned the attack and called for calm and unity.
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, issued a statement urging the Muslim community to settle internal disagreements through dialogue and not violence.
Meanwhile, police say the suspect is expected to be arraigned before court next week on charges of attempted murder and causing harm. Investigations are still ongoing to determine whether others may have played a role in the incident.
The shocking attack has reignited conversations around mosque security and the need for greater oversight in leadership transitions.
Authorities have assured the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and order within all places of worship across the country.
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