The Nkawkwa district court, presided over by His Worship Isaac Adjei, has remanded 37 accused individuals arrested in connection with the recent riots in Kwahu Bepong.
These individuals are to reappear before the court on February 23, 2024.
The violence erupted on February 3,following the alleged rape and murder of a 45-year-old woman, Akua Kyerewaa, by a 23-year-old ex-convict, Kwasi Tenkorang. .
Sadly, Kwasi Antwi, the victim’s brother, was also killed while attempting to rescue his sister during the attack.
The community, incensed by the incident, demanded justice, with the chief offering a reward for the capture of the alleged killer.
However, tensions escalated when Kwasi Tenkorang was apprehended in Kwasi Fori, leading to a clash between the police and a mob at the palace.
This resulted in injuries to five officers and a civilian casualty and injuries.
In the ensuing chaos, residents targeted police assets, damaging six motorcycles, a vehicle, and the chief’s palace.
The Ghana Police Service subsequently apprehended 71 individuals linked to the riot, who were screened accordingly.
Eastern Regional Minister Seth Kwame Acheampong visited Kwahu Bepong on February 4, 2024, to assess the situation and ensure the restoration of law and order. Addressing security personnel, he emphasized the importance of maintaining their presence to restore and maintain peace amidst ongoing tensions.
Contrary to suggestions for the withdrawal of police personnel, the Regional Minister, also serving as the chairman of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), rejected such proposals.
He stressed the necessity of police presence to ensure the safety and security of the community and deter further violence.
“We need the men on the ground to help sanitize whatever went on in the community. It is not by one person’s idea; it is a municipal security council that sat and took steps. Besides that, they are professionals who are managing the crime situation for us,” remarked Minister Acheampong.
Meanwhile, schools in the Bepong community that were temporarily closed have resumed normal activities.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
