The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) has ordered the immediate suspension of all burials at the Osu Cemetery following disturbing reports of illegal exhumations, desecration of human remains, and the unauthorised sale of burial plots.
The decision was announced by the Municipal Chief Executive, Alfred Ato Allotey-Gaisie, through a statement delivered to the media on Thursday, 5 February, by the Mayor, Michael Kpakpo Allotey.
Describing the alleged acts as both criminal and unethical, Mr Allotey-Gaisie said they violate Ghana’s cultural values and the deep respect traditionally accorded to the dead.
According to the Assembly, investigations and verified complaints have revealed that some individuals unlawfully exhumed graves, interfered with human remains, and sold burial spaces at the Osu Cemetery to unsuspecting and grieving families without proper authorisation.
“The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly condemns these acts in the strongest possible terms. Such conduct is not only criminal but also deeply offensive to our moral conscience, cultural values, and reverence for the dead,” Mr Allotey-Gaisie said.
He acknowledged the pain and emotional trauma suffered by affected families and extended the Assembly’s sympathy to all those impacted by the alleged activities.
As an immediate step to restore dignity, order, and accountability at the cemetery, KoKMA has suspended all burials at the site until further notice.
Burials for indigenes, however, will be allowed under strictly controlled and monitored procedures.
Mr Allotey-Gaisie explained that the suspension would enable the Assembly to carry out a thorough assessment, audit, and restructuring of the cemetery’s management system.
The Assembly will also conduct a comprehensive review of all burial permits issued, including the verification of burial plots, documentation, and approval processes, to identify irregularities and prevent future abuse.
In addition, KoKMA has announced strengthened security and monitoring measures at the cemetery, including the deployment of additional personnel and closer supervision, to prevent unauthorised access and further desecration of the site.
“As Municipal Chief Executive, I have directed the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit to intensify its oversight and sanitise the management of the Osu Cemetery, ensuring the dignity of those laid to rest is fully protected,” he said.
The Assembly has urged families with relatives buried at the Osu Cemetery to visit the site and report any concerns through the appropriate municipal channels.
