Three chiefs have incurred the wrath of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for their alleged involvements in galamsey activities in the region.

The three chiefs: Sabronum Gyaasehene Nana Awua Gyau Atuomi, Sabronum Akyeamehene, and Baamuhene, were destooled by the Asantehene following a petition submitted by concerned residents of the traditional area.

These concerned residents are reportedly without a paramount chief.

During the Asanteman Council meeting at the Manhyia Palace on August 26, 2024, in a video posted by an X account, the Otumfuo destooled the trio and referred them to the police for prosecution.

The petition presented by the residents accused the Gyaasehene of engaging in illegal mining and contributing to the destruction of the area’s sole drinking water source, the River Asuonfou.

The Gyaasehene, however, denied the allegations.

His claim was backed by the Kyeamehene, but it backfired when the Baamuhene and other traditional rulers opposed it.

Testimonies during the meeting also showed that many traditional leaders had been bribed by illegal miners and were involved in the galamsey activities.

Confirming the allegations, Otumfuo stated that he had previously petitioned the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) to conduct investigations into the Gyaasehene’s involvement, based on several reports.

The investigation’s findings confirmed that the Gyaasehene was indeed involved in and guilty of the allegations, he said.

“You have destroyed the town with galamsey. I was informed of your involvement in galamsey for some time now and not today. It even appeared in the Chronicle newspaper some time ago and I petitioned the NIB to conduct investigations into the claims. The report and its findings are here with me.

“Your names are all written in the report and I’ve had the report for almost 3 months now. If I allow you to stay, you will completely destroy the town,” the Asantehene said.

The three were destooled as punishment and to serve as a deterrent to other chiefs.

TWI NEWS

Watch the video below:



MAG/AE