The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has appealed to the public to refrain from circulating unverified information regarding the death of one of its students, as police investigations into the incident continue.
The appeal follows the discovery of the body of Level 200 Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource) student, Innocentia Atsufui Avinu, at Hutchland Beach near Duakor in Cape Coast.
In a press release issued on Sunday, June 14, the University said authorities are still working to establish the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and cautioned against speculation.
“The General Public is also being advised to desist from sharing or publicising false information about the incident, as such actions may impede ongoing investigations and cause unnecessary distress to the bereaved family, course mates, management, and the entire University Community,” the statement said.
According to the University, preliminary examinations conducted by police both at the scene and at the mortuary revealed no visible signs of physical injury on the body.
The statement indicated that the deceased’s family has formally identified the body, while police are preparing to conduct a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
The UCC District Police Commander, ASP Abdul Abubakar, is quoted as saying that a coroner’s form will be obtained on Monday, June 15, to facilitate the autopsy.
“This procedure will enable a pathologist to determine the exact cause of death and provide further clarity on the case,” the statement noted.
The University said management has been informed of the incident and has activated support measures for the bereaved family, the deceased student’s roommate, course mates and other affected students.
