KEY POINTS
- Queen Mother released following police intervention.
- Investigation ordered into controversial Kwahu operation.
- Police deployed additional personnel to maintain calm.
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the immediate Kwahu Queen Mother release following a controversial early-morning operation that sparked tension in the Kwahu Traditional Area on Monday. Authorities increased security across the region to maintain calm as investigations began.
Police said the IGP ordered the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) to investigate the operation fully and sanction any officers found responsible. The move aims to address public concern over the conduct of officers during the dawn operation.
Authorities probe Kwahu Queen Mother release operation
Earlier reports claimed that heavily armed officers forcibly removed the Queen Mother, Nana Adwoa Gyamfua III, from her Abene residence around 4:30 a.m., reportedly firing shots “indiscriminately.” However, the Kwahu Traditional Council denied these claims, explaining that the police were enforcing a lawful court injunction.
The Eastern Regional House of Chiefs issued an order on June 24, 2024, that supported Daasebre Akuamoah Agyapong II and barred Baffour Osei Akoto, who dubbed himself the Kwahuhene, and the Queen Mother from interfering with the Paramount Chief’s duties at Abene Palace. The Council said the operation was legal but noted that neighbors were upset because they didn’t understand the police presence.
Officials have since urged calm and said the PPSB inquiry will determine whether authorities followed proper procedures. They have deployed more personnel in and around Kwahu to ensure everyone’s safety during the investigation.
The IGP’s quick decision to release the Kwahu Queen Mother shows that the police are balancing peacekeeping with accountability.
