Report Kumasi Central Market demolition to police – Regional Minister to traders

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei-Mensah, has urged all affected traders at the Kumasi Central Market to file police reports following the demolition of their properties by a private developer claiming ownership of the land.

“Yesterday, one person I spoke to, I told them that they should first of all inform the Ghana police service while we are having the developer hold on. All the traders who have gotten their properties destroyed should complain to the Ghana Police Service so that when the issue is resolved and it goes in their favour, we’ll know what to do.”

This directive comes after a recent incident where a private developer, claiming ownership of the land, attacked traders at the Kumasi Central Market, leaving them stranded and in despair. They are now expected to vacate the area.

In an interview with Eyewitness News on December 5, 2023, Minister Osei-Mensah revealed that he had requested the developer’s ownership documents before taking any further steps.

“I was in Accra yesterday and received information early this morning about an investor or developer who claims ownership of a portion of the land near the railway station. He has reportedly destroyed properties belonging to the traders. I immediately contacted the police to invite the developer, urge him to halt further action, and request that he submit all documents proving ownership of the land. I am currently awaiting these documents. Once I receive them, I will assess their validity,” he explained.

The Minister also expressed surprise at the possibility of Ghana Railways granting access to the land, as it rightfully belongs to them.

“This is why I want to see the documents and understand who authorized the developer’s access. We are currently facing difficulties demolishing other properties within the Railway Line enclave due to claims of authorization from Ghana Railways. We are working to resolve these issues. Therefore, I would be very surprised if Ghana Railways allocated additional land to other individuals without proper consideration,” he said.

Traders affected by the incident spoke to Citi News, lamenting the loss of their livelihoods. They said they have occupied the land for over 40 years and relied on it as their sole source of income.