Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa seeks probe into deaths of two Ghanaians in New York

Ghana's Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a transparent and thorough investigation into the deaths of two young Ghanaians in New York. The fatalities, which occurred within a single week in the Bronx, have caused significant distress within the Ghanaian diaspora and prompted an official response from the government. The victims have been identified as 24-year-old Joseph Owusu and 15-year-old student Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong.

Joseph Owusu, a dedicated caregiver, was found dead at a Bronx dumpsite under circumstances that remain unclear. During a visit from officials of Ghana’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Owusu's brother, Kwadwo, appealed for justice and a rigorous inquiry to uncover the facts behind the tragedy. Deputy Permanent Representative Ben Dotsei Malor visited the grieving family to offer condolences and confirm that the Ghanaian government is monitoring the autopsy and investigative procedures closely.

The second incident involved Javits Badu Nkansah Frimpong, who was fatally shot while on his way to school. Minister Ablakwa expressed profound shock at the back-to-back losses, noting that the government is committed to ensuring the safety and welfare of Ghanaians living abroad. The timing of the two deaths has raised concerns among community leaders regarding the security and accountability of residents in the area.

The Ghanaian government has pledged its full support to the affected families as they navigate the legal and investigative processes. The Permanent Mission of Ghana to the UN remains in contact with New York law enforcement agencies to ensure a comprehensive report on both cases is provided. Community leaders continue to advocate for better safety measures for the diaspora while the Ghanaian authorities await the final results of the ongoing autopsies.