By Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako
Tension is mounting along the Ketu South coastline as the three-day ultimatum issued by the Concerned Net Owners Association (CNOA) over the burning of canoes and generators at Denu Landing Beach has officially expired, with no suspect coming forward.
As a result, the Association says preparations are underway to invoke traditional and spiritual measures — commonly referred to as juju or voodoo — to uncover those behind the attacks.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with News Volta, the Chairman of CNOA, regional organizer of CaFGOAG Mr. Francis Bedzo, disclosed that the Association has begun seeking formal traditional permission from key traditional authorities across the area to proceed with the spiritual action.
According to him, some traditional leaders have already granted approval, including:Chief of Denu, Traditional authorities in Viepe, the Volta Regional Chief Fisherman, Torgbui Doe Nkekeshie
He added that the Association is awaiting final clearance from other chiefs, elders, and opinion leaders within the affected fishing communities before proceeding.
“The three days we gave have elapsed, and no one has come forward. We have therefore started consultations with traditional leaders. Some have already given us the go-ahead, and we are waiting for the rest to conclude the process,” Mr. Bedzo stated.
CNOA is also questioning what it describes as the troubling silence surrounding the burning of canoes and generators, stressing that the absence of arrests or clear investigations has deepened frustration among affected fishermen and net owners.
Members of the Association who spoke to News Volta expressed disappointment at the lack of decisive action by authorities, describing the situation as deeply worrying and unjust.
In a strong statement, some members of the Association blamed the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu South, Hon. Nicholas Worclachie, for what they described as “provocative and negligent public remarks” regarding light fishing.
They argue that the MCE’s open condemnation of light fishing, without what they see as balanced engagement and enforcement against both illegal methods — light fishing and poly net fishing — has worsened tensions, contributing to the recent violent acts.
“We believe the MCE’s approach and public statements have fueled anger and division. The way this issue has been handled has led to the destruction of property and livelihoods,” a member of the Association said.
CNOA insists that traditional and spiritual intervention is now the only remaining option to expose those behind the attacks and restore justice, warning that the Association can no longer tolerate silence and impunity.
“If the law cannot bring out the truth, then tradition must. This is the only way left to vindicate ourselves and protect our investments,” Mr. Bedzo stressed.
The Chairman further revealed that extensive public announcements have already been carried out across all major landing beaches from Vodza to Viepe, informing fishermen, canoe owners, and community members about the Association’s next steps.
“No one can claim ignorance. We have gone from beach to beach to inform everyone,” he added.
As tensions continue to rise, residents and fishing groups are calling for urgent mediation, impartial enforcement of fisheries laws, and swift investigations to prevent further escalation along the Ketu South coastline.
Source News Volta
