The Ghana Police Service has broken its silence on the early morning raid at the Kwahu Traditional Palace in Abene, Eastern Region, which led to the reported abduction of the Kwahuhemaa, Nana Adwoa Gyemfua III, by individuals in police uniforms.
In an official statement issued on Monday, November 17, 2025, the police service said the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has directed the immediate release of the revered Queen Mother, following the controversial operation that sent shockwaves through the Kwahu traditional area and beyond.
The IGP has further instructed the Police Professional Standards Bureau to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the dawn raid, with a stern warning that any officers found culpable will face severe sanctions.
“The Inspector-General of Police has directed the release of the Queen Mother of Kwahu, following an operation by some officers this morning.
“The IGP has further directed the Police Professional Standards Bureau to conduct investigation into the circumstances surrounding the operation and any officers found culpable sanctioned,” the statement said.
The statement added that security has been intensified in and around Kwahu to ensure the security and safety of all persons.
The incident unfolded reportedly around 4:30 a.m. when heavily armed personnel, believed to be police officers, stormed the palace amid indiscriminate gunfire, according to eyewitness accounts.
They, recounted how several individuals were arrested and bundled into vehicles before the Queen Mother’s absence was discovered, fueling fears of an abduction.
Residents say they immediately contacted the Kwahu Police Commander, but he denied knowledge of the operation or the identities of the personnel involved.
Reports indicate that the official Toyota Land Cruiser belonging to the Kwahuhene was also seized during the raid, with tracking data suggesting it was headed towards Accra.
The motive behind the operation remains unclear, though it has sparked widespread outrage and speculation of internal chieftaincy disputes or unauthorized police action.