Assembly Member and 14 Others Arrested for Besease Palace Vandalism

The Ashanti Regional Police Command has apprehended 15 individuals, including the assembly member for Hiawu, Osei Tutu, in connection with the vandalism of the Besease Palace. This incident occurred during the final funeral rites of the late Queenmother of Hiawu Besease, Nana Abena Moku, on March 12, 2026. Tensions escalated after a chaotic burial ceremony, leading to a group of residents allegedly storming the palace and damaging property. Reports indicate that a police vehicle and an ambulance were also destroyed during the unrest. The case, initially managed by the Abuakwa Police, has been transferred to the Ashanti Regional Police for further investigation. The arrested individuals are currently in custody and will be processed before court. Additionally, a separate shooting incident during the funeral resulted in injuries to a 19-year-old pregnant woman, Serwaa Alice, and a schoolgirl from stray bullets. Serwaa was taken to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital for surgery, where her unborn baby was unfortunately lost due to the injury. The schoolgirl has since been treated and discharged. The police continue to investigate both incidents.