Omanghana
The University of Cape Coast (UCC) community has been plunged into mourning following the discovery of the body of 20-year-old student Innocentia Atsufui Avinu at Hutchland Beach after she was reported missing.
The Level 200 Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resource Management) student was found on Friday morning, June 12, 2026, prompting a comprehensive police investigation and renewed calls from public officials for a transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Student Reportedly Went Missing After Leaving Hostel
According to information gathered during the investigation, Innocentia was last seen on the evening of Thursday, June 11, at her residence in Ayensu Plaza Hostel in Amamoma.
Her roommate reportedly told investigators that Innocentia received a phone call at around 7:00 p.m., dressed casually, and left the hostel to meet an acquaintance outside the university community. She did not return, raising concerns among those close to her.
Body Discovered Along the Shoreline
Authorities say residents of the Duakor community alerted police after spotting a body washed ashore at Hutchland Beach at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Friday.
The Central Regional Police Command confirmed that the deceased was found lying face down and dressed only in her underwear. Preliminary observations reportedly noted blood coming from her nose and minor bruising near one eyebrow. Investigators, however, indicated that an initial examination did not reveal obvious signs of severe physical assault or forced penetration.
Police also disclosed that her mobile phone was not recovered from the scene, making it an important focus of the ongoing investigation.
Family Formally Identifies Victim
On Saturday, June 13, Innocentia’s family, who hail from Dzodze in the Volta Region, officially identified her body at the morgue.
Investigators are expected to obtain the necessary coroner’s authorization to facilitate a full post-mortem examination, which will help determine the exact cause of death and establish whether any criminal activity was involved.
University Launches Internal Review
The University of Cape Coast has initiated its own internal processes through the Directorate of Public Affairs and the Dean of Students’ Affairs to assist in reconstructing the student’s final movements.
The institution is also providing psychological support to her roommates, classmates, and members of the university community affected by the tragedy.
Public Officials Call for Thorough Investigation
The incident has drawn attention from national leaders, with Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu and Ketu North Member of Parliament Edem Agbana publicly calling for a thorough and transparent investigation.
Edem Agbana, who managed a scholarship programme from which Innocentia reportedly benefited, urged law enforcement agencies to pursue all available leads and determine whether foul play contributed to her death.
Police Appeal for Responsible Public Conduct
As investigations continue, police have urged members of the public and the university community to refrain from circulating unverified information or speculation on social media.
Authorities say allowing investigators to follow the evidence without interference is essential to preserving the integrity of the case while minimizing additional distress for the bereaved family.
The circumstances surrounding Innocentia Atsufui Avinu’s death remain under active investigation, with authorities expected to rely on forensic findings and other evidence to establish the events leading to the tragic incident.
Source: Omanghana
