The Ghana Police Service says it has tightened security in Ahwerase and surrounding communities in the Akuapem South Municipality of the Eastern Region ahead of the Odwira Festival, following renewed chieftaincy clashes between the Abokomanhene of the Asona family and the Baamuhene.
The dispute, which occurred on Wednesday, October 23, centered on who holds the traditional right to lift the ban on drumming and noise-making, marking the start of the annual Odwira Festival.
Police have confirmed the death of one person, identified as Isaac Nana Kwasi, and several others injured are receiving treatment at the Aburi KOM Presbyterian Hospital.
Thirty-four persons, including six chiefs, have been arraigned in connection with the violent confrontation.
Speaking to JoyNews, the Public Relations Officer of the Eastern Regional Police Command, Superintendent Ebenezer Tetteh, said that the police will not hesitate to pursue others involved in the violence.
“We are going to ensure that the law takes its course. The persons who have been arrested are being taken through due process.”
Police say the suspects have been charged with rioting with offensive weapons and causing unlawful harm.
According to JoyNews correspondent Maxwell Kudekor, the 34 suspects were arraigned before the Mampong District Court on Thursday.
He reported that their lawyers applied for bail, which the court granted — GH₵500,000 with one surety each for four of the leaders, and GH₵100,000 with one surety each for the remaining 30 followers.
Calm has so far been restored, but police personnel remain on the ground to prevent any escalation.