Security forces have arrested dozens of suspects amid rising tensions in Kwahu following the abduction of the Kwahu Abetifihene, Akyemfour Asiedu Agyemang III, by armed men.
The traditional leader, who was acting President of the Kwahu Traditional Council after the alleged destoolment of the Kwahuhene, was reportedly stripped and molested before Obaapanyin Yaa Asantewaa, a self-proclaimed Abrewatia of the Royal Family.
A video circulating online captured the Kwahu Abetifihene, clad only in shorts, seated on the floor while being assaulted by the armed men in the presence of the Abrewatia.
The shocking incident provoked outrage among locals, particularly youth loyal to the Abetifihene, who stormed the scene where the leader was being mistreated, forcing the armed men to flee and leaving behind the Abrewatia.
In a retaliatory act, the enraged youth captured and stripped the Abrewatia, parading her naked through the streets, a move that further fueled tensions in the area.
Law enforcement swiftly deployed armed police and military personnel to prevent further violence and restore order.
Eyewitnesses recounted that Obaapanyin Yaa Asantewaa and her group of armed men arrived in Abetifi on Thursday afternoon when most residents were away on their farms, leaving the Kwahu Abetifihene alone in the palace.
The armed group reportedly abducted, handcuffed, and molested the Abetifihene, later conducting a ritual that involved the sacrifice of a sheep to destool him, an act seen as provocative by the community.
The incident incensed local youth, triggering clashes with the armed men accompanying the Abrewatia.
The situation quickly escalated, prompting law enforcement intervention to curb the violence.
The traditional leaders in Abetifi reaffirmed Akyemfour Agyemang III as the chief through their own rites and returned him to the main palace.
Amidst the unrest, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, the Member of Parliament for the area, arrived to mediate and played a crucial role in de-escalating tensions.
Currently, the Abrewatia remains in police custody for her safety as efforts continue to stabilize the community with deployment of more police and military personnel.
Local authorities and Dr. Acheampong are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further outbreaks of violence.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
