Chief of Aiyinase faces Sekondi court over deadly community riot

The Chief of Aiyinase, Nana Etwe Kpanyinli VI, is facing the Sekondi Circuit Court in the Western Region over violent disturbances that led to the death of a 13-year-old boy.

The prosecution follows a directive from the Office of the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice, responding to a petition from the Aiyinase community regarding chaos sparked by a chieftaincy dispute.

Five others: Abusuakpanyinli Mozu Boadi (also known as Agya, second accused), Kofi Manford (third accused), Obed Kwasi Asamoah (fourth accused), Lawrence Bena (also known as Atsu, fifth accused), and Daniel Donkor (sixth accused), have been named as accomplices.

Background

The case stems from a succession dispute following the death of Abusuakpanyinli Atobra Boadi. On January 2, 2021, Abusuakpanyinli Yemi (Peter Solomon Enderson) was duly installed as the new head of the stool. However, Nana Etwe Kpanyinli VI allegedly attempted to install his uncle, Yaw Boadi, as a rival to the same position, contrary to traditional customs.

Despite an initial failed attempt, the chief is accused of engaging cutlass-wielding macho men to intimidate and harass Abusuakpanyinli Yemi, an action that reportedly triggered violent clashes in the community. During the chaos, the 13-year-old boy tragically lost his life due to a gunshot injury to the head.

Charges

After thorough investigations, Nana Etwe Kpanyinli VI and his accomplices have been charged under the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29) with partaking in unlawful assembly, abetment to commit crime, carrying offensive weapons among others.

Nana Etwe Kpanyinli VI, who is currently on bail will reappear before the court on 1 April.

Asaase Broadcasting Company airs on Asaase 99.5 Accra, Asaase 98.5 Kumasi, Asaase 99.7 Tamale, Asaase 100.3 Cape Coast, AsaasePa 107.3 (Accra).