Scores of people have been displaced following a demolition exercise by the Asokore Mampong Municipal Assembly at an enclave in Sabon Zongo in the Ashanti Region, on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
Speaking on Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9fm in Kumasi with Sir John, on Friday, July 31, 2026, the Asokore Mampong Municipal Chief Executive, Ben Abdallah Alhassan, said the exercise was necessary after persistent complaints about rising crime in the area.
The decision follows heightened security concerns after the lynching of a 27-year-old man accused of stealing GH¢4,800 and the discovery of the body of an unidentified young man.
The Assembly said it gave prior notice to residents, including cattle rearers, mechanics and traders, before the demolition.
Some occupants removed their structures ahead of Thursday’s deadline, but excavators proceeded to pull down the remaining structures as residents watched.
Armed police and military officers were deployed to provide security and maintain order as the Assembly demolished what it describes as a criminal hideout.
The operation was carried out under tight security, with armed police and military personnel deployed to maintain order throughout the exercise.
According to the Asokore Mampong MCE, the affected settlement has for years been associated with illegal activities, including drug trafficking and other forms of crime.
He said the demolition forms part of efforts to restore security and reclaim the area. The decision follows a series of security incidents in the enclave.
He disclosed that eight suspects were on their radar but they have been able to arrest five suspects and currently pursuing three others.
By Benjamin Aidoo
