Eric Ato Appiah Mends, known as Nana Beeyin II, the acting Gyaasehene of the Nkusukum Traditional Area in the Central Region, has been remanded by the Cape Coast District Court 1 over the alleged murder of 52-year-old Kwesi Mekyeawo.

The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, October 25, 2024, during the preparations for the Nkusukum Odambea Festival in Nkusukum, Mankessim. Mekyeawo was fatally shot during a ritual procession to slaughter a cow, where tensions reportedly arose between different factions within the traditional area.

According to witnesses, the procession was interrupted by individuals associated with the Nkusukum Obaatan Division, leading to a confrontation.

During the altercation, Nana Beeyin II allegedly drew a firearm and fatally shot Mekyeawo in the head.

Following the incident, the chief turned himself in at the Mankessim Divisional Police Command, after which he was brought before Cape Coast District Court 1 on Tuesday, October 29.

The prosecution, led by ASP Daniel Gadzo, has charged Nana Beeyin II with murder. During the court hearing, the prosecutor requested additional time for further investigations, given the sensitive nature of the case.

Presiding Judge Her Worship Anita Sheila Crabbe granted this request and remanded the accused until the next hearing date.

In a public statement outside the courtroom, Ebusapanyin Solomon Ato Budu-Hegan, the Family Head of the Nkusukum Amansea Twidan family, expressed deep disappointment and condemned the alleged actions of Nana Beeyin II, describing him as a self-styled chief. He called for justice, reflecting the community’s shock over the event.

Nana Amoa I, the Gyaasehene of the Nkusukum Amansea, appealed to the court to expedite proceedings, urging that the case be handled fairly and swiftly. T

he case has been adjourned to Tuesday, November 12, 2024, allowing time for police investigations to continue.