By 
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has ordered the immediate release of the Queen Mother of Kwahu, Nana Adwoa Gyamfua III, after a controversial early-morning police operation triggered tension in the Kwahu Traditional Area on Monday.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service said the IGP has also instructed the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) to launch a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the operation. Officers found culpable will be sanctioned. Security has since been reinforced across Kwahu to maintain calm.
The development follows widespread alarm in the Eastern Region after the Paramount Chief of Kwahu, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, confirmed the queen mother had been taken from the palace under what he described as violent and unexplained circumstances.
According to the chief, heavily armed police officers stormed the Abene palace around 4:30 a.m. on Monday, November 17, firing shots indiscriminately before taking the queen mother away.
“There was heavy gunfire, and people in the palace were thrown into fear,” he told Adom FM. He added that the traditional council was not informed prior to the operation, a situation he said had deepened anxiety among residents.
The IGP’s directive seeks to de-escalate rising tensions as residents questioned the police’s approach and demanded clarity on the reasons for the dawn raid.
The investigation by the police is expected to determine whether proper procedures were followed and whether any officers abused their authority.
Meanwhile, the Police Service says enhanced security deployments have been made “in and around Kwahu to ensure the safety of all persons” as investigations continue.
Authorities are urging residents to remain calm while the facts are established.
