Residents of Wassa Essaman in the Wassa East District of the Western Region have accused the District Chief Executive (DCE), Emmanuel Boakye, of allegedly sending armed individuals to take control of their community to drive out outsiders.
According to the residents, these armed men patrol the area day and night, firing warning shots, which has tragically resulted in the death of a 21-year-old man. The situation has created a climate of fear among residents, who are calling for immediate intervention from the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Nana Kwadjo Boampong II, the Dwamtoahene of the Wassa Anyinabrem divisional area, told journalists that the community was peaceful until the DCE threatened to evict all outsiders.
The DCE allegedly intends to bring in new people for community mining in the Subri Forest Reserves and does not want any outsiders involved. Nana Kwadjo Boampong II pointed out that many residents are long-time inhabitants who have lived in the community for decades and own property there.
The DCE’s announcement was met with resistance from the community, leading to the deployment of armed individuals. Residents, especially women, have reported that the DCE’s actions have severely disrupted economic activities, family life, and marriages in the area, prompting a call for the IGP’s intervention.
Isaac Adjei Mensah, the Member of Parliament for the Wassa East constituency, has condemned the DCE’s actions and urged for calm and peace. However, the DCE has denied involvement in these activities.
