Three sub-chiefs stripped of powers over involvement in illegal mining activities

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has stripped off the powers of three traditional sub-chiefs at Sabronum in the Ahafo Ano South East District, over their involvement in illegal mining activities in the area.The three are the Gyaasehene Nana Awua Gyau Atuomi, Akyeamehene Nana Kankam Boadu and the Baamuhene Nana Yaw Tabiri Gyansa.Their destoolment followed a petition sent by some residents in the area over the illegal activities of the chiefs and the subsequent investigations ordered by the Asantehene into the matter.The investigation, conducted by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) implicated the chiefs, and they were therefore invited to the palace to answer the charges.At the Asanteman traditional meeting at the Manhyia palace on Monday August 26, this year, 2024, Otumfuo Osei Tutu, who was angry with the conduct of the sub-chiefs, ordered the immediate removal of all the traditional powers and authorities of the chiefs, after their inability to extricate themselves from the allegations and charges.Testimonies from various witnesses revealed that almost all the traditional leaders in the area are involved in the unlawful mining operations, with some receiving monetary benefits from the miners.In pronouncing his judgment, Otumfuo Osei Tutu disclosed that he had sanctioned an investigation by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) into the allegations several months prior to the submission of the petition by the residents to his office.He pointed out that the Gyaasehene and the Akyeamehene, who were supposed to take hold of the community in the absence of a substantive chief, had neglected their duties toward the traditional Area.Otumfuo Osei Tutu declared: 'You have exploited the authority bestowed upon you to despoil the land.'The initial knowledge I gained was through the media, prompting me to dispatch NBI officials to verify the claim.'The subsequent report I received implicated you.'Your tenure of leadership concludes today, and any attempt to engage in subterfuge upon your exi t will result in your arrest.'The DCE lacked the resolve to apprehend you, but I will not hesitate to do so.'The power you have abused is now slipping away from your grasp.'Sabronum does not belong solely to you, hence you are not at liberty to act with impunity there.'Consequently, the Asantehene appointed the Akwamuhene of Sabronum to oversee the activities of the community until a new chief was installed.Sabronum traditional area currently does not have a chief.Source: Ghana News Agency