The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has issued a strong warning to chiefs within the Ashanti Kingdom, vowing to destool any traditional leader found hiring or collaborating with land guards to protect lands under their custody.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the newly appointed Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Arthur Osei Akoto, at the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, the Asantehene described the practice as unlawful, dangerous, and contrary to the customs and traditions of Asanteman.

“I will destool any chief who engages the services of land guards. They know very well that they have no such authority,” Otumfuo declared firmly. “When those lands were entrusted to them upon their enstoolment, I never instructed them to hire land guards to protect them. I did not grant them the power to employ people to use guns and harm others.”