The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has issued a strong warning to the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjo, urging him to remain vigilant against individuals attempting to misuse his name for dishonest purposes.
Speaking during a meeting at the Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo cautioned the newly appointed commander about potential manipulation, including from some traditional authorities who may falsely invoke his name to influence police operations.
Otumfuo advised DCOP Teye-Cudjo, who took over from DCOP Frank Abrokwa in February, to verify any claims or directives supposedly coming from him before acting on them.
“Verify from me if any chief comes to you in my name or tries to use my name to influence your duty. Do not allow anyone to use my name to interfere with your work dubiously or dishonestly,” the Asantehene stressed.
The King also provided guidance on how the police should handle chieftaincy and land disputes, issues that have historically led to tensions in the Ashanti Region.
On land disputes, Otumfuo emphasized that all lands in the region belong to the Golden Stool, with designated caretakers managing them. He warned against land guards and urged the police to immediately report any violent conflicts over land to him.
“I don’t want land guards here. No matter where the land is, it belongs to me, and there are caretakers. Where there is a land dispute, we intervene and resolve it. There should be no violence over lands. If it happens, inform me immediately and enforce my directives,” he instructed.
Regarding chieftaincy disputes, he advised the police to arrest all parties involved and notify him, explaining that such conflicts are often rooted in bribery and dishonesty rather than genuine succession claims.
“Chieftaincy disputes are resolved amicably. If anyone comes to you with such an issue, arrest all parties involved and bring the matter to me. I have made it clear that anyone who pays a bribe to have a ruling in their favor is wasting their money—when the case comes before me, the truth prevails,” he declared.
Otumfuo also voiced strong concerns about illegal mining (galamsey), warning that its devastating impact on the environment, particularly water bodies, poses a major threat to future generations.
“Galamsey is a serious concern. The youth may be looking for jobs, but that is no excuse to destroy our natural resources. If we continue like this, soon we won’t have water. We all deserve to benefit from our resources, but we must do so the right way,” he said.
The visit to Manhyia Palace on February 28, 2025, was part of DCOP Emmanuel Teye-Cudjo’s official introduction as the new Ashanti Regional Police Commander. He was accompanied by a delegation including ACP Stephen K. Kwakye (Deputy Regional Commander), ACP Ameyaw Afriyie (Manhyia District Commander), and Godwin Ahianyo (Public Relations Officer). The team was led by outgoing Regional Commander, DCOP Frank Abrokwa.
In his address, DCOP Teye-Cudjo assured Otumfuo of his commitment to enhancing security in the region.
“I assure you that I will serve Asanteman and Ghana with dedication. I will draw wisdom and strength from Otumfuo’s leadership to ensure security remains a top priority. With your support, we will lift Asanteman and make the region safer,” he pledged.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
