Residents of Lion So, a community in Mpasatia within the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region, are in shock following the tragic death of a 22-year-old man. Reports indicate that he fell into a borehole after allegedly consuming 225 mg of Tramadol.

The deceased, identified as Kofi Samuel, popularly known as “PTA”, is believed to have taken a 225mg tablet of Tramadol, a potent opioid widely referred to on the streets as “Red”, on Wednesday, May 7.

‘Red’ is an illegally traded synthetic opioid known for its strong euphoric and sedative effects. It is often misused for recreational purposes despite its dangerous side effects.

The Borehole

According to eyewitnesses and friends of the deceased, around 5:00 p.m. on the day of the incident, PTA began exhibiting unusual behavior shortly after taking the substance.

“He told us he needed water to cool himself down after taking the Red. Not long after, we heard that he had jumped into a borehole near his house,” one of the friends recounted.

The borehole, which was reportedly uncovered, became the scene of a frantic rescue attempt by neighbours. Despite their efforts to retrieve him alive, they were unsuccessful.

The Nkawie District Police were called to the scene and later conveyed the body to the morgue for preservation.

The police have since launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible drug abuse.