The chiefs and people of Mpatasie near Berekum in the Brong Ahafo Region have threatened to take the law into their own hands if harassment by Fulani herdsmen in the area is not stopped. According to the Chief of Mpatasie, Nana Kyere Gyeabour I, the Fulani herdsmen have been assaulting inhabitants of Mpatasie and other villages while their cattle destroy their farm products and their source of drinking water. Nana Gyeabour who spoke on Adom FM's Dwaso Nsem said for about 10 months now, farmers in the area have been afraid to go to their farms in fear of being killed by the Fulanis. The issue of Fulani herdsmen has been one of a major concern as reports of their lawlessness pour in from parts of the country especially in the Ashanti, Eastern and Brong Ahafo Regions with government response not particularly encouraging. While some have been accused of raping women on their farms, others have reportedly murdered residents in areas where they operate. Residents of Agogo in the Eastern Region embarked on a demonstration against the Fulanis some months ago demanding that their Paramount Chief, Nana Akuoko Sarpong sack them from the land or they will advise themselves. Even as he issued his ultimatum, Nana Kyere Gyeabour I accused the Municipal Chief Executive of Berekum, Laud Stephen Oppong of being in bed with the Fulani herdsmen. He explained that four Fulanis were recently arrested in a forest reserve at Berekum where their animals were grazing, but they were granted bail on the instructions of the MCE adding that when he was questioned as to why he took that action, Mr. Oppong said it was to serve as a warning to the Fulanis to desist from their acts. He said a few days after their release however, the herdsmen invited more of their kinsmen who with their cattle caused more havoc in the area. Nana Kyere Gyeabour I noted that he and his elders had reported their concerns to the Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo who has promised to call the MCE to order and ensure that by August 5, 2011 the Fulanis would have vacated Mpatasie. He however stated that since there is a clear indication that the government has failed to protect their lives and property, they will take the law into their hands if the deadline elapses without them vacating the land. He said the residents will arm themselves with locally manufactured guns and other weapons and drive the herdsmen out of their lands. MCE for Berekum, Laud Stephen Oppong refused to comment on the issue. Story: Akuamoah Boateng/Adom News/Ghana