Traditional leaders in Hwediem have thrown their weight behind President John Mahama’s renewed fight against illegal mining while calling for the immediate release of innocent residents swept up in last month’s joint police–military mass arrest in the Ahafo Region.

The dawn security operation in Kenyasi (Asutifi North) and Hwediem (Asutifi South) followed reports that operatives of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) had been held hostage at the Hwediem Police Station. The confrontation sparked national concern about rising tensions between state-backed anti-galamsey teams and groups of unidentified youth.

More than 150 people were arrested during the raids, transported to Kumasi and remanded for two weeks as investigations continued.

Addressing journalists in Hwediem, the Mawerehene, Baffour Nsia-Awuah, reaffirmed the Traditional Council’s commitment to the government’s intensified anti-galamsey drive.

“We support the President’s resolve to restore discipline in our natural resource sector,” he said.
“Illegal mining threatens our water bodies, our security, and our collective future. The Traditional Council stands firmly with the government in this fight.

He assured that the chiefs would work closely with security agencies to maintain peace and protect the environment.

“Anyone who appeared in that viral video threatening NAIMOS personnel and returns to Hwediem will be handed over to the police without hesitation,” he warned.
“We cannot allow a few individuals, many of them non-natives, to tarnish the long-standing reputation of our town.”

The Adontenhene, Baffour Kyei Anarfi, appealed for the release of what he described as “innocent bystanders” affected by the mass arrests.

“Among those detained were travellers, workers, roadside preachers, and even patients going to the hospital,” he said.
“We humbly appeal to the President, as Commander-in-Chief, to ensure that innocent persons do not continue to suffer unjustly.”

He emphasised that while the community supports the crackdown, law enforcement must be conducted with fairness and discretion.

Seeking to protect the town’s image, the Benkumhene, Nana Asirifi Gyimah Dadeako, dismissed claims that Hwediem is becoming a security hotspot.

“Hwediem has always been a peaceful town, welcoming traders, investors and travellers from all parts of the country, including foreign companies,” he said.
“This is a district capital and a major transit route. We reject any attempt to portray our community as violent or unsafe.”

He encouraged businesses to remain confident in Hwediem as a safe environment for investment and commerce.

Baffour Nsia-Awuah reiterated the chiefs’ commitment to preventing future disturbances.
“What happened was unlawful, unacceptable and deeply disrespectful,” he said.
“We condemn it without reservation. The Traditional Council does not condone any form of unlawful behaviour.”

He reaffirmed that the chiefs remain dedicated to promoting peace, development and respect for the rule of law in Hwediem and across the region.