Hwediem chiefs back Mahama’s anti-galamsey drive, demand release of innocent detainees
Traditional authorities in Hwediem have declared their full support for President John Mahama’s renewed campaign against illegal mining, while also demanding the prompt release of innocent residents caught up in last month’s joint police-military mass arrests in the Ahafo Region.
The early-morning security operation in Kenyasi (Asutifi North) and Hwediem (Asutifi South) was reportedly triggered by allegations that officials of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) had been detained at the Hwediem Police Station. The incident heightened nationwide concern over escalating tensions between state-backed anti-galamsey teams and groups of unidentified youth.
Over 150 individuals were arrested during the exercise, transported to Kumasi and subsequently remanded for two weeks as investigations progressed.
Speaking to the media in Hwediem, the Mawerehene, Baffour Nsia-Awuah, reiterated the Traditional Council’s firm backing of the government’s intensified efforts to curb illegal mining.
“We support the President’s resolve to restore discipline in our natural resource sector,” he said. “Illegal mining threatens our water bodies, our security, and our collective future. The Traditional Council stands firmly with the government in this fight.”
He stated that traditional leaders would collaborate closely with security agencies to sustain peace and safeguard the environment.
“Anyone who appeared in that viral video threatening NAIMOS personnel and returns to Hwediem will be handed over to the police without hesitation,” he warned. “We cannot allow a few individuals, many of them non-natives, to tarnish the long-standing reputation of our town.”
The Adontenhene, Baffour Kyei Anarfi, appealed for clemency for those he described as “innocent bystanders” affected by the mass arrests.
“Among those detained were travellers, workers, roadside preachers, and even patients going to the hospital,” he said. “We humbly appeal to the President, as Commander-in-Chief, to ensure that innocent persons do not continue to suffer unjustly.”
He stressed that despite the community’s support for the anti-galamsey enforcement, operations must be carried out with fairness and sound judgment.
In a bid to safeguard the town’s image, the Benkumhene, Nana Asirifi Gyimah Dadeako, rejected suggestions that Hwediem is evolving into a security trouble zone.
“Hwediem has always been a peaceful town, welcoming traders, investors and travellers from all parts of the country, including foreign companies,” he said. “This is a district capital and a major transit route. We reject any attempt to portray our community as violent or unsafe.”
He encouraged investors and business owners to remain confident in Hwediem as a secure destination for commerce and development.
Reaffirming the chiefs’ resolve to prevent future unrest, Baffour Nsia-Awuah condemned the incident in strong terms.
“What happened was unlawful, unacceptable and deeply disrespectful,” he said. “We condemn it without reservation. The Traditional Council does not condone any form of unlawful behaviour.”
He concluded by reiterating the commitment of traditional leaders to peace, development and strict adherence to the rule of law in Hwediem and the wider region.
Source: Joy News
