by The Insight Newspaper – Thursday, August 31, 2023
Two young men, identified as Rauf Ousman and Tanko, were nearly lynched by members of their community after reportedly being caught in a same-sex act. The incident, according to eyewitnesses, occurred on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.
An eyewitness recounted the events to The Insight, stating that a close friend of Rauf, known as Abu, unexpectedly visited Rauf’s residence to watch a football match—a common practice between the two. Unlike previous visits, Abu did not inform Rauf ahead of time. Upon entering the room, Abu allegedly witnessed Rauf and Tanko in an intimate situation.
Shocked by the scene, Abu attempted to raise an alarm. Despite Rauf’s efforts to calm his friend and prevent escalation, Abu’s alarm drew the attention of community members, who forcefully entered the premises. Both Rauf and Tanko were reportedly beaten severely by the enraged crowd and narrowly escaped being lynched.
According to local reports, Rauf managed to flee the scene and is believed to have escaped to his hometown, which is situated far from the community. Tanko also reportedly disappeared and his current whereabouts remain unknown.
Sources suggest that the community has a strict stance against homosexuality and LGBTQ+ activities, which are considered taboo both culturally and religiously. A community task force, said to have been established to monitor such activities, is believed to be involved in the pursuit of the individuals involved.
Rauf Ousman, born on January 25, 1985, in Accra, is a resident of Oyarifa. His alleged involvement came as a surprise to many, especially close friends who recalled that he was previously in a long-term relationship with a woman named Hassana, which nearly led to engagement. That relationship, however, reportedly ended due to unforeseen circumstances.
As of the time of this report, neither Rauf nor Tanko has been located, and efforts to reach them for comment have been unsuccessful. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the two may have crossed into a neighboring country out of fear for their safety.