Traditional leaders in Hwediem have called for the immediate release of innocent residents swept up in last month’s joint police–military mass arrest in the Ahafo Region.
The chiefs did this while also supporting the efforts by the government in dealing with illegal mining activities.
Over 150 people were recently arrested in an anti-galamsey operation after some individuals had attacked the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) team who were embarking on an exercise to clamp down on galamsey.
Speaking to journalists in Hwediem, the Mawerehene, Baffour Nsia-Awuah, said the traditional leaders pledged their support towards the fight against galamsey.
They however appealed to authorities to release those who are innocent.
Baffour Nsia-Awuah noted that the chiefs would work closely with security agencies to maintain peace and protect the environment.
“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.
“Anyone who appeared in that viral video threatening NAIMOS personnel and returns to Hwediem will be handed over to the police without hesitation,” he said.
“We cannot allow a few individuals, many of them non-natives, to tarnish the long-standing reputation of our town.”
He added, “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.”
On his part, Adontenhene, Baffour Kyei Anarfi, stated that there were innocent individuals who were arrested during the raid and must be released.
“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.”
Meanwhile, the Benkumhene, Nana Asirifi Gyimah Dadeako, has refuted assertions that Hwediem is becoming a security hotspot.
“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 therefore admonished businesses to remain confident in Hwediem as a safe environment for business.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
