Tension has gripped the Awutu Kwashie Abbey community in the Awutu Senya West District of the Central Region after four military officers and two national security operatives were arrested by the Bawiiase District Police Command during an attempt to install a rival chief.
According to police reports, the arrests were made after information emerged that a group of individuals was secretly trying to enstool a new chief despite the existence of a gazetted traditional ruler, Nai Kwashie Abbey VII.
The intervention by police led to chaos, as supporters of the incumbent chief stormed the Bawiiase Police Station demanding the release of the detained officers. The angry crowd threatened to unleash violence if the suspects were not freed.
The standoff intensified until a military vehicle, registered 52 GA 62, arrived at the scene with reinforcement to secure the release of the arrested soldiers.
Members of the Asafo group loyal to Nai Kwashie Abbey VIl condemned the attempted installation, accusing state security personnel of meddling in local chieftaincy affairs.
Asafo Supi Nipa-Nka, leader of the group, urged the military and national security to refrain from interfering in traditional matters, warning that their actions risk igniting unrest in the community.
“The military and national security must stay away from chieftaincy issues. Their involvement will only inflame tensions and destabilise the area,” he cautioned.
Calm has since been restored, but residents say the atmosphere remains volatile as they await further action from the police and traditional authorities.
