Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe: Kusasi chief shot dead in Asawase
Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi Chief in the Ashanti Region has been shot dead by unknown assailants at Asawase, a Kumasi suburb.
He was reportedly attacked on Tuesday night by the unknown assailants.
The development has heightened the security situation in the area.
Until his death, the late chief also served as the Kaadi Divisional Area Chief in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region.
According to some eyewitnesses, the unidentified gunmen, each riding a motorbike, reportedly approached the chief on Tuesday evening and shot him at close range, and fled the scene.
Police statement
A police statement said investigations are ongoing
The statement noted that the victim was initially rushed to the Manhyia District Hospital and later referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
In response to the incident, the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Mr Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe; the Regional Crime Officer, ACP Mr Ebenezer Boyor; and a team of officers visited the crime scene.
During the inspection, two empty shells suspected to be from an AK-47 assault rifle were recovered and documented.
The Regional Police Command has assured that every effort was being made to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the heinous crime.
“We therefore urge the public to remain calm and call on anyone with relevant information to contact the nearest police station or reach us through our emergency lines: 191, 18555, and 112,” the statement concluded.
Condolences
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Asawase, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has extended his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, the Kusasi community in the Ashanti Region, and the entire traditional leadership of the Kusaug area.
He said: “This heinous act is not only an attack on a revered traditional authority but also a grievous wound to the peace and security we all cherish.”
He assured the family and the people of Ghana that the security agencies were fully committed to ensuring the swift apprehension of the perpetrators, who would be made to face the full rigours of the law.
“We remain resolute in protecting every citizen and upholding the rule of law. I call on all residents, particularly within the Asawase constituency and its environs, to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies by providing any information that may assist in the ongoing investigations,” he stated.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak, who also serves as the Minister for the Interior, urged the public to stand together to ensure that justice is served and that peace prevails in the constituency and across the nation.
“May Allah grant the late chief eternal rest and strengthen his family and community during this difficult time,” he added.
Security presence
In the aftermath of the incident, security at the late chief’s residence has been intensified by personnel of the Ghana Police Service. The increased presence is intended to assure residents of their safety following the brazen attack by the gunmen.
Grief and mourning
Scores of residents and neighbours gathered at the late chief’s residence on Wednesday morning upon hearing of his tragic death. Family members and mourners were inconsolable, with many weeping uncontrollably as they paid their respects.
