Military and police officers, 5 others charged for allegedly stealing black stool

A military officer, a police officer, and five other individuals have been charged with unlawful entry and theft of a black stool and other royal items from the Anum Traditional Area in the Eastern Region.

The case was brought before Koforidua Circuit Court “B” on July 30, 2024.

The accused persons are Nana Owusu Ntow, 50, a businessman; Samuel Kwasi Annor, 58, a driver; Ernest Yaw Acheampong Attuah, 47, a carpenter; Yaw Odame, 52, a farmer; Nana Okyoampem Adu III, 26, a police officer; Daniel Ayesu Kumi, 70, a businessman; and W.O.1 Michael Opare-Appiah, 48, a military officer.

The case stems from an incident on May 4, 2024, when the accused allegedly broke into the complainant’s premises, stealing the black stool, other royal regalia, and two kente cloths valued at GH¢ 5,800.

The complainant, Nana Odame Osafo III, had been entrusted with the safekeeping of these items following his enstoolment as the Gyasewahene of Anum Traditional Area.

A witness who saw the theft in progress alerted the complainant, who then reported the crime to the police, leading to the arrest of the accused.

At the first court hearing, only three of the accused—Samuel Kwasi Annor, Ernest Yaw Acheampong Attuah, and Yaw Odame—appeared.

Their lawyer attributed the absence of the other accused to late notice of the court date.

The three present were granted bail of GHC 50,000 each with two sureties and were required to present Ghana cards and sign a justification form.

The case has been adjourned to August 12, 2024.

The incident is related to a protracted chieftaincy dispute over the selection of the heir to the vacant Anum paramount tool following the death of Nana Appiah Kumi II, which is before the National House of Chiefs.

The late Omanhene reigned for 46 years until his demise eight years ago (1970–2016).