Authorities in Damongo, the capital of Ghana’s Savannah Region, have arrested three individuals for allegedly violating a directive issued by the area’s paramount chief banning the sale of locally prepared kebabs, popularly known as chinchinga.
The order, enacted by Damongowura Boresah Kelly Seidu I, prohibits the sale of any meat sourced from animals slaughtered outside the official municipal abattoir. The ban, which remains in effect until further notice, aims to curb a recent surge in livestock theft reported across the West Gonja Municipality.
The Youth Chief of Damongo, Mbonwura Lukman Salifu Soldier, confirmed the arrests in a statement to local media on Saturday. “Upon hearing the information, Damongowura Boresah Kelly Seidu I sent a delegation through me to confirm the slaughtering of a cow in an individual’s residence in Damongo,” he said.
According to the chief’s office, several farmers and herders in the region have recently complained about the disappearance of livestock—including goats, sheep, and cattle—raising suspicions of an organized theft syndicate operating in the area.
The three suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue. It is unclear whether they will face charges under local law or traditional authority.
The incident underscores the complex relationship between Ghana’s formal legal system and long-standing customary rules, particularly in rural regions where traditional leaders maintain significant influence over community affairs.
