Abuakwa (Ash), May 23, GNA - About seven pickpockets who took advantage of the congestion at the funeral grounds of the 34 choristers who died in an accident last week and robbed unsuspecting mourners of their mobile phones have been arrested by the police at Abuakwa. The suspects whose names have been withheld for security reasons are helping the police in investigations.

Police sources at Abuakwa, which briefed the GNA said the activities of the pickpockets started when after the solemn pontifical mass, the respective bereaved families were asked to "bury their own dead" resulting in a pandemonium.

The Police said in the midst of wailings and confusion, the suspects decided to charge on mourners to steal their mobile phones in spite of the heavy security presence.

About 35 people also became unconscious owing to the stampede and were given on the spot first aid treatment.

Meanwhile, the Ashanti NDC has expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and appealed to the government to institute a scholarship scheme for the orphans of the deceased to enable them to pursue their education.

Mr Kwame Donkor Fordjour, Managing Director of the Kass Products, a quarry industry footed the total cost of the funeral including the caskets.