The University of Cape Coast (UCC) has initiated an internal investigation following the death of one of its Level 200 students, whose body was discovered at Hutchland Beach in Cape Coast on Friday, June 12, 2026.
The deceased, identified as Innocentia Atsufui Avinu, was confirmed by the university after police notified authorities following the recovery of her body along the shoreline.
In a statement issued through its Directorate of Public Affairs, UCC said it is collaborating closely with the UCC District Police Command as investigations continue to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The University is working closely with the UCC District Police Command to establish the circumstances that led to this unfortunate incident,” the statement noted.
The Office of the Dean of Students’ Affairs is coordinating the university’s response and supporting ongoing police processes, including identification and information gathering.
Preliminary accounts indicate that Ms Avinu, who resided in a private hostel at Amamoma, was last seen on the evening of Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Her roommate reportedly told investigators that she received a phone call, left the room dressed casually around 7:00 p.m., and never returned.
Family members later visited the police station on Saturday, June 13, where they formally identified the body of the deceased. The university has since indicated that it is facilitating communication between the police and the bereaved family while extending necessary support.
UCC further confirmed that counselling and psychological support services have been made available to the deceased’s roommate, classmates, and other students affected by the incident.
Police have taken over investigations and are expected to obtain a coroner’s form to enable a post-mortem examination aimed at determining the exact cause of death.
Both the university and the police have cautioned the public against the spread of unverified information, warning that speculation could interfere with investigations and deepen the distress of the bereaved family and the university community.
