Benlord Ababio's alleged role in national security and land dispute raises questions in Ghana

Ghanaian

Several incidents involving Benlord Ababio, have recently surfaced, highlighting his alleged involvement in national security issues and land disputes.

In one incident from June 2021, Ababio was implicated in a case where 19 individuals, posing as Ministry of National Security personnel, were arrested for illegal mining in the Akenteng Forest Reserve in the Eastern Region.

The group,

Read full articleallegedly led by Ababio, faced charges of conducting reconnaissance for mines without lawful authority, among others, according to Assase radio reports.

In another incident dating back to February 2024, a clash erupted between angry youth at Awutu Prison Junction and military and police officers over an 11-acre land dispute involving Ababio.

The altercation stemmed from claims that the land belonged to Ababio, who had reportedly purchased it in 2008 but faced encroachment from a developer.

Citi News reported that despite a search report from the Lands Commission confirming Ababio's ownership, tensions escalated, leading to a confrontation with the authorities.

Ababio's connection to national security affairs also involves his association with George Asante, a former aide to Major General Francis Adu Amanfo (Rtd), who was appointed as National Security Coordinator in 2021 by President Akufo-Addo.

The Daily Guide reported that Asante, along with 32 others, was arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities in the Atewa Forest reserve. Asante, believed to be a ringleader, was denied bail by a Koforidua High Court.

The accused individuals, including Asante and Ababio, faced charges of possessing firearms without lawful excuse.

Meanwhile, the National Security Ministry on May 1, 2024, clarified that Benlord Ababio, the suspect arrested in connection with a fatal shooting involving a military officer in Kasoa Millennium City, is not a national security operative, contrary to social media claims.

The Ministry emphasized that Ababio is not affiliated with the Ministry of National Security and urged the public to disregard any misinformation suggesting otherwise.

The police, confirming Ababio's arrest on May 1, stated that the shooting occurred on April 30, resulting in the death of the soldier, who was shot at Millennium City, Kasoa, in the Central Region.

The police further disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that Ababio allegedly shot the soldier around 4:20 pm on April 30, causing fatal injuries.

The victim was immediately taken to the Mother and Child Hospital in Kasoa for medical attention but was later pronounced dead. The incident stemmed from a land dispute where the deceased and his companions confronted individuals working on a piece of land they believed belonged to them.

Efforts to resolve the dispute at the Millennium City District Police Command were unsuccessful, leading to heightened tensions and the tragic loss of life.

These incidents underscore the complexities surrounding national security and land issues in Ghana.

The cases involving Ababio and others raise questions about the extent of illegal activities, such as illegal mining, and the role of individuals claiming affiliation with national security agencies.

The clashes and legal proceedings highlight the need for thorough investigations and adherence to the rule of law to address these challenges effectively.