A chieftaincy conflict in the Awutu Senya West District nearly turned into chaos after four Ghana Armed Forces personnel and two national security officers were reportedly arrested by the Bawjiase District Police Command. The security officers were allegedly involved in an attempt to enstool a rival chief in a community that already recognises Nai Kwashie Abbey VII as its legitimate leader.
Police intelligence suggested that a group was quietly preparing to introduce a new ruler, despite the existing traditional authority. Officers moved in to prevent the installation ceremony, resulting in the arrest of the six individuals linked to the operation.
The apprehension, however, ignited immediate agitation. Supporters backing the rival chief stormed the police station, demanding that the arrested security officers be freed. The pressure intensified as the group threatened disorder if their calls were ignored.
The tense atmosphere escalated further when a military vehicle with registration number 52 GA 62 arrived with reinforcement personnel who reportedly sought to retrieve their colleagues, raising fears of a violent confrontation within the town.
Residents aligned with Nai Kwashie Abbey VII strongly condemned the events, accusing the security services of meddling in a purely traditional matter. According to the displeased locals, such incursions into chieftaincy affairs risk inflaming needless conflict and disturbing peace in the community.
As at now, the Ghana Police Service has not issued any formal response to the incident or the growing concerns surrounding state security involvement in the dispute.
