The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has begun a large-scale demolition exercise at a settlement behind the COCOBOD building in Asafo, bringing down hundreds of makeshift structures in an area authorities say has become a centre for criminal activities.
The operation was led by Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi and carried out under tight security, with armed police and military personnel deployed to maintain order throughout the exercise.
According to the Assembly, the affected settlement has for years been associated with illegal activities, including drug trafficking, prostitution and other forms of crime. Officials say the demolition forms part of efforts to restore security and reclaim the area.
The decision follows a series of security incidents in the enclave. Authorities disclosed that the local Assembly Member, Patrick Yeboah, was recently attacked and robbed of his mobile phone in the area.
In another incident, Mayor Boadi reported a police inspector for allegedly operating a brothel within the settlement. The officer is currently under investigation.
Speaking during the operation, the mayor said residents had been served with prior notices to vacate the area before the demolition began.
He explained that earlier attempts to clear the settlement had failed after KMA task force members were attacked, leaving three officers injured and Assembly equipment damaged.
The mayor described the latest operation as successful and peaceful, adding that every unauthorised structure on the site would be removed to improve public safety and reduce criminal activity.
However, the demolition has left thousands of people homeless. Men, women, children, the elderly, pregnant women and nursing mothers were seen sitting by the roadside with their personal belongings, uncertain about where they would spend the night.
While some managed to arrange transportation for their possessions, many said they had nowhere else to relocate.
To prevent a return of the settlers, the Assembly plans to secure the land after the demolition.
The mayor also revealed that although the land belongs to the Ghana Railway Authority, some occupants claim they possess valid lease agreements issued by the Authority.
Describing the development as surprising, he said the Assembly would meet with officials of the Railway Authority to verify the claims before reporting the matter to the Ministries of Local Government, Lands and Natural Resources, and Transport for further investigation and action.
