The Hwediem Youth Association (HYA) has distanced residents of Hwediem from the recent violence between the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and Bronikrom, which reportedly involved attacks on soldiers by a group of unidentified youth.

The confrontation erupted when a patrol team from NAIMOS intercepted individuals allegedly engaged in illegal mining at Bronikrom, near Hwediem, along the Goaso–Acherensua highway.

Following the arrests, some agitated youth reportedly attempted to forcibly retrieve seized items, including vehicles, phones, and guns, leading to a tense standoff at the Hwediem Police Station, where the NAIMOS team sought refuge.

Amid growing public confusion and media speculation, the people of Hwediem have rejected all attempts to associate their community with the violence that unfolded, reaffirming their commitment to law, order, and development.

Speaking at a press briefing, Bawa Saani Mohammed, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Hwediem Youth Association, explained that the community had been unfairly linked to the incident simply because the nearest police station to Bronikrom is located in Hwediem.

“Hwediem was only mentioned because the suspects were brought here. None of those arrested are from our community. They are strangers, including a Burkinabe national working at Bronikrom,” he clarified.

The youth association noted that it quickly mobilised community leaders, traditional authorities, and the Zongo Chief to ease tensions and prevent retaliation.

Their swift action, together with reinforcements from police and military units in Goaso and Kenyasi, helped stabilise the situation and avert what could have escalated into a violent confrontation between civilians and security forces.

“Our youth understand that peace is the foundation of every development effort,” said Akwasi Antwi, Chairman of the Hwediem Youth Association. “We will not allow our town to be branded as violent because of the actions of a few outsiders.”

He disclosed that some residents fled their homes immediately after the incident, fearing possible military retaliation. However, through consistent engagement and reassurance, community leaders have restored trust among residents.

The Association has also appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohunu, to strengthen security patrols in Hwediem and surrounding communities to ensure that innocent residents can go about their daily lives peacefully, without fear of possible military retaliation.

The Association has pledged its full cooperation with any independent investigation commissioned by the state into the NAIMOS–Bronikrom confrontation, calling for transparency and fairness to restore public confidence.