Akpeteshie Kills Barman�Four Others In Critical Condition

The owner of a popular drinking bar at Elubo in the Western Region died under mysterious circumstances last week after consuming a quantity of akpeteshie, a locally distilled gin, which had been mixed with herbs. Four other patrons of the bar who had earlier taken the same stuff complained of serious abdominal pains and were rushed to the hospital on time for medical attention. They are said to be responding to treatment. The police, who suspect that the drink was poisoned, have arrested two suspects, including the bar attendant for further investigations into the matter. The deceased, 34, was Jones Kwabena Appiah. According to the Jomoro District Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police John F. Dzineku, the four had called at the Bob Linking Bar at different times on that fateful day and later complained of stomach pains, for which reason they were rushed to the hospital where they were admitted. He said after close of work, Appiah, who was not aware of what had befallen the four patrons, took some of the drink, known in local parlance as �bitters�. After some time, the police said, Appiah complained of excruciating abdominal pains. According to the commander, Appiah died before he could be rushed to hospital. Those helping investigations are Kwadwo Aha, the bar attendant, and a woman, Faustian Amoah Afrifah. Appiah�s body has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.