Nene Hakpo Adi Buertey Puplampu, a man already under scrutiny for attempting to brand himself as chief, is now facing allegations of goat theft in Puplampokope at Big Ada.
The controversial figure has found himself embroiled in yet another scandal, this time involving accusations of goat theft in the Puplampokope community of Big Ada, where he has been residing.
The embattled man, who recently went into hiding to evade growing pressure over his contentious efforts to declare himself the chief of Hwapo, is now facing criminal charges after residents accused him of stealing a total of twelve goats from various households.
The incident came to light when four different goat owners in the Puplampokope community reported the loss of their animals.
According to the residents, the community has been plagued by a series of goat disappearances in recent weeks, sparking concerns and frustration among local livestock owners.
Despite multiple public announcements urging the thief to come forward, no one has admitted to the thefts.
The latest disappearance of four goats prompted the community to form a search team to investigate the matter.
The team searched the area, eventually discovering the missing animals locked inside the kitchen of Hakpo Adi Buertey Puplampu's Aborsey residence near the Ada Traditional Council.
The discovery of the goats on Puplampu's property led to immediate outrage, and residents quickly reported the matter to the local police, demanding his arrest.
Nene Asem, the Asafoatse (traditional leader) of the Puplampokope community, expressed shock and disappointment at the revelation.
"I suspect he was planning to smuggle the goats out of town under the cover of darkness. I wouldn’t be surprised if he is responsible for the recent string of goat thefts in our community. This is a serious offense, and I trust the law will take its course," he said.
Tensions in the community escalated as residents waited for the police to take action.
However, the delay in the arrival of the police investigator at Puplampu's home nearly led to an outbreak of violence, as the youth of the community were ready to take matters into their own hands.
Authorities have since calmed the situation, and Puplampu is expected to face charges in connection with the theft.
The police have assured the community that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the full extent of Puplampu's involvement in the recent spate of goat thefts.
The case has further tarnished Puplampu’s reputation, already marred by accusations of dubious land deals in Hwapo and his controversial attempt to assume the chieftaincy of the area.
As the investigation unfolds, the residents of Puplampokope are hopeful that justice will be served.