The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) in the Ashanti Region has commenced a major demolition exercise at Asafo, behind the Cocobod building, targeting hundreds of unauthorised structures in an area authorities have identified as a hotspot for criminal activities.
The exercise, supervised by Kumasi Metropolitan Chief Executive Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, was conducted under tight security provided by personnel from the Ghana Police Service and the military.
According to the Assembly, the area had become associated with illegal activities, including drug-related offences and prostitution, prompting the decision to clear the settlement.
The security situation in the enclave recently came under scrutiny after the Assembly Member for the area, Patrick Yeboah, was reportedly attacked and robbed of his mobile phone.
The Mayor also disclosed that a police inspector had been reported for allegedly operating a brothel within the settlement, with the officer currently under investigation.
Mr Boadi explained that the demolition was not carried out without notice, insisting that occupants had been given adequate time to vacate the area.
He said earlier attempts by the KMA task force to clear the area had been met with resistance, resulting in attacks on officers, injuries to some personnel and damage to equipment.
The Mayor described the latest operation as successful, adding that all illegal structures would be removed to improve safety and restore order in the metropolis.
However, the exercise has left several residents displaced, with many including elderly persons, pregnant women and nursing mothers stranded without alternative accommodation.
Some of the affected residents were seen sitting along roadsides with their belongings as they searched for ways to transport their household items and find temporary shelter.
An elderly man with a walking stick was among those seen moving through the demolished area as residents expressed concern over their immediate living conditions.
The KMA has announced plans to secure the site to prevent occupants from returning.
The land, which belongs to the Ghana Railway Authority (GRA), has also raised further concerns after reports emerged that some occupants possess valid leases allegedly issued by the Authority.
Mr Boadi said he was surprised by the claims and indicated that he would engage the Ghana Railway Authority to investigate the circumstances surrounding the leases.
He added that findings from the engagement would be forwarded to the Ministers responsible for Local Government, Lands and Transport, while the Lands Ministry would also be informed to examine possible lease irregularities.
Meanwhile, Assembly Member for the area, Patrick Yeboah, has been speaking on the impact of the demolition and the concerns of affected residents.:
