TIG Post

Tag: REGSEC

  • Gov’t to clear encroachers from Tema Ramsar site on August 4

    Gov’t to clear encroachers from Tema Ramsar site on August 4

    All unauthorized structures on the protected Tema Ramsar site will be razed on Monday, August 4, as announced by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

    Areas to be affected by the demolition exercise include 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12 Communities in Tema, Greater Accra Region.

    The hint comes after an unannounced visit to the site earlier this week by Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, revealed ongoing encroachment on the protected wetland.

    Speaking to the media, the Minister described the encroachment as “a serious threat to the ecological integrity of the Ramsar Site. This is a protected area, and we cannot allow private developers or individuals to compromise its long-term environmental value”.

    One of Ghana’s designated wetlands is the Tema Ramsar Site, the area holds international recognition under the Ramsar Convention. It also helps prevent flooding, keeps water clean, and supports wildlife.

    In May, REGSEC pulled down unauthorized structures along waterways at the Sakumo Ramsar site.

    The demolition exercise by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is intended to manage flooding, enforce environmental regulations in the region, and also revive natural watercourses.

    The operation, which began on Tuesday, May 27, comes shortly after the recent devastating floods that hit parts of Accra on Sunday, May 18.

    In a meeting with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), on Tuesday, May 27, the Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo revealed plans of stationing a task force within the country to avert a possible erection of the demolished structures.

    “We will continue with the demolition exercise at Sakumono and Tema. In some places where the demolition was done, they have raised the structure again. So we are going to cause an arrest. We are not going to leave a single structure; all of them will go down,” the minister stated.

    “After the demolition, we are going to put a task force in place who will be working 24 hours to protect the place,” she added.

    She bemoaned the compliance amongst some of the affected individuals, although they were noticed prior to the exercise.

    “They are aware. In fact, there has been an engagement; they are very much aware of this exercise. Some of the buildings have notices of ‘Stop Work’,” she stated.

    There is mounting pressure on the government to initiate long-lasting solutions following the recent flood on Sunday, May 18, that wrecked several homes, claimed lives, displaced residents, and disrupted economic activities.

    Weija, Kaneshie, Adabraka, Tema, and Adentan-Dodowa are a few of the areas that have been affected by the rains.

    President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling Ghana’s persistent flooding challenges by ordering the demolition of illegally constructed buildings blocking waterways.

    Speaking at the 2025 National Eid-ul-Fitr celebration at Black Star Square, he blamed the increasing flood disasters on poor urban planning and unauthorized developments in wetlands, waterways, and Ramsar sites.

    The President made it clear that his administration would take drastic action against encroachers, stressing that all structures obstructing natural drainage systems would be removed to prevent further destruction.

    “I don’t think the exercise lacked [coordination]. For me, the beginning of work was very satisfactory,” he stated.

    The government in recent times has become stern on solving the country’s sanitation and decongestion challenges.

    The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) embarked on a decongestion exercise in the Central Business District (CBD) in April this year.

    The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, issued a stern caution to traders operating on the pavements.

    “Kumasi should expect cooperation, discipline. There is a lot of indiscipline in our metropolis. In all humility, I am going to ensure strict compliance with the Assembly to the by-law that manages our city. If you are selling on the pavement, adjust yourself.”

    “If you are in the middle of any dual carriageway road, especially within the central business district, please get out of the place. Because from Wednesday, we will get on the street and make sure that we clear Kumasi from all the filth that we see.”

    “With the decongestion, we will not apply the forces of military men. Everybody wants to sell at Adum, so we will find some ingenious way to keep them in Adum and decongest Adum,” he said.Before the exercise, vehicular movement in the area was at a standstill, as some traders sold their items in the middle of the streets, preventing pedestrians and vehicles from barely moving freely.

    Also in Accra, the Accra Mayor, targeting street traders with a 3-day decongestion exercise targeting street traders.

    The first phase of the exercise launched on Tuesday, May 20, targeting areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    The issues of congestion compelled the transport operators to threaten a strike action against the government and the Ghana Police Service

    They gave authorities until Monday, May 19, to act or face a nationwide protest. However, the strike action was not executed.

    According to the operators, the growing encroachment of roads and pavements by traders poses serious safety risks and disrupts the free flow of traffic.

    They are demanding the immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly those relating to trading on roads and pavements.

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

    Meanwhile, a 24-hour city-wide cleaning initiative is set to begin soon, as announced by the Mayor of Accra, Michael Allotey.

    Speaking to the media, he shared that the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) plans to utilize the Borla Macho III tricycle to drive the operation.

    He explained that the Borla Macho III tricycle donated by a Ghanaian electro-mechanical engineering firm, Anointed Engineering Services Ltd, has a hydraulic system that will enhance the efficiency of cleaning activities.

    “This morning we are here not to sell a generator but to donate our special product, the Borla Macho III, to the AMA… It’s a one-man-operated tricycle with a hydraulic system that lifts and empties bins, compresses waste internally, and tips at dumping sites without manual contact.

    “It’s the perfect tool for urban sanitation, and we believe, as the city improves with the vision of the AMA; this product can help bring sanity into our sanitation system,” he stated.”

  • Unauthorized structures in Dodowa Forest pulled down by REGSEC

    Unauthorized structures in Dodowa Forest pulled down by REGSEC

    The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has dismantled unauthorized structures on parts of the Dodowa forest, which has been designated a security zone.

    This action follows concerns from the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs about increasing encroachment by private developers.

    In collaboration with the Forestry Commission, REGSEC also conducted a tree-planting initiative to rehabilitate the affected forest areas post-demolition.

    Daniel Titus Glover, the Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC, explained the initiative to the press.

    The local youth of Dodowa have shown enthusiasm and support for the government’s efforts to restore the forest.

  • Land guard incidents rise in Ashanti Region

    Land guard incidents rise in Ashanti Region

    The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a stern warning that it will arrest and prosecute individuals who hire land guards in the region.

    REGSEC has emphasized that even the land guards themselves will face legal consequences.

    This caution follows REGSEC’s serious concern over the increasing illegal activities of land guards in several communities within the region.

    Land guards, organized criminal groups engaged in protecting land and property during disputes, often resort to violence, leading to violent clashes.

    In a statement endorsed by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, it was highlighted that historically, all stool lands in the Ashanti Region are under the authority of His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, with his chiefs acting as caretakers.

    This framework provides ample avenues to resolve land disputes by appealing to His Majesty.

    REGSEC urged residents to utilize appropriate channels for addressing land issues rather than resorting to land guards, whose activities pose threats to law-abiding citizens and contribute to violence.

    The statement concluded with REGSEC urging the public to comply strictly with these directives to maintain peace, order, and safety in the region, emphasizing the collective responsibility to foster an orderly and peaceful Ashanti Region.

    “Based on this fact, the Ashanti Regional Security Council requests all citizens in the region to use the right procedures to address their land disputes rather than to employ the use of land guards whose activities always threaten law-abiding citizens and result in violence.

    “It is the expectation of the Regional Security Council, that the public will accept the above directives for strict compliance to ensure peace in the region. Let us all work together to make the Region an orderly, safe, and peaceful one.” the statement added.

  • Leave immediately! – Upper East REGSEC orders illegal miners

    Leave immediately! – Upper East REGSEC orders illegal miners

    The Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has directed illegal miners occupying sections of land in the border community of Sapelliga to remove their equipment and vacate the premises.

    The expansive land at Sapelliga, a border community in the Upper West Region, has been overrun by illegal miners from both Ghana and Burkina Faso, engaging in galamsey activities without any intervention from state authorities.

    Head of the Upper East REGSEC and Regional Minister, Hafiz Bin Saleh, issued the order for the illegal miners to withdraw, highlighting the environmental destruction and the damage to significant boundary markers.

    “Please, if you want to continue operating here, do the right thing. We are going to contact the Minerals Commission so that they make this place available to prospective miners so that you would be licensed and then we give you the opportunity to operate.

    “But what you are doing currently is unacceptable, it’s highly unacceptable. This is the last time that we are coming here, and this is a stern warning from the Regional Security Council, so take note and begin to pack your tools.”

    The Ghana Boundary Commission, which supported REGSEC’s efforts, stated their goal was to curb the activities of the illegal miners.

    The Commissioner General of the Commission, Major General Emmanuel Kotia, noted that the illegal miners’ actions continue to tamper with Ghana’s boundary markers with Burkina Faso.

    He emphasized that this could lead to disputes between the two countries if the boundaries are not clearly defined.

    “There were a lot of interferences so far as our boundary line is concerned. Some of these activities led to the removal of international boundary pillars and for that matter, there was no clarity so far as the markings of the boundary is concerned.

    “And then, because we have quite a sizeable number of people coming from Burkina Faso to do a lot of illegal activities here, if we don’t take care, while these boundary pillars are removed, some of our territories can be taken or probably can be declared as part of Burkina Faso because these markings are not visible on the ground,” he said.

    Major General Emmanuel Kotia highlighted his team’s decision to support the construction of patrol routes, which will serve to mark the international boundary pillars.

    He explained that their facilitation of REGSEC’s involvement was intended to help them better understand the situation on the ground.

    “REGSEC plays a very key role so far as the territory sovereignty of the country is concerned, especially regions that have boundaries with our neighbours. So we work in collaboration with REGSECS to ensure that our boundaries are secure.”

    Additionally, Regional Minister Hafiz Bin Saleh pointed out that besides the environmental degradation caused by the miners, terrorists from neighboring Burkina Faso could exploit the situation to fund their nefarious activities.

    “In Burkina Faso, there are insurgents there and there are terrorists who want to infiltrate into our country and to be able to perpetuate what they are doing, they need finance so they engage in what you people are doing.

    “In order to save the people of this country, we want to stop issues of this nature so that people don’t have means of funding nefarious activities,” he said.

    He noted that Ghana is currently enjoying peace and emphasized that Ghanaians should appreciate the tranquility they are experiencing.

    “We will not allow the interest of any individual or any group of persons to affect the peace that the country is enjoying.”

  • REGSEC demolishes Kwadaso Onion Market

    REGSEC demolishes Kwadaso Onion Market

    On Monday, April 22, hundreds of sheds at the Kwadaso onion market in the Ashanti Region were demolished as traders hurried to salvage their belongings.

    The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) issued a directive ordering onion traders to vacate the market, citing security concerns posed by their operations in the area.

    The council noted that the parking of heavy-duty trucks on parts of the road near the market was leading to vehicular congestion, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, the council attributed a recent fatal accident involving a 45-year-old woman to the traders’ activities.

    Despite being given until April 21, 2024, to move to a new location at Atwima Takyiman, many traders were reluctant to relocate.

    Armed police and military personnel were deployed to oversee the forced relocation and demolition of the market.

    Affected traders expressed their frustrations to Citi News, stating that they were not officially notified and given adequate time to prepare for the move. They claimed they were under the impression that they would be able to purchase the land and were in the process of raising funds for the purchase.

    One said, “We were at the workplace and we saw the military and police are all over with a bulldozer that they are going to, that the regional minister and MCE are relocating us which we were not aware of that. We just heard it on the radio and you cannot relocate somebody based on what he heard on the radio, you have to give the person an official notice and give you time, maybe three months or four months that we are relocating you before you can relocate us.”

    “You cannot just come this morning and say you are relocating us, that you got a place at Atwima-Takyiman and that we should go there, which is not fair. And here, we were told that they were selling the place to us, that’s what our elders told us and we were gathering money to pay for it.”

  • You have 3 weeks to relocate to Atwima Takyiman – REGSEC tells Sofoline Interchange traders

    You have 3 weeks to relocate to Atwima Takyiman – REGSEC tells Sofoline Interchange traders

    The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a three weeks ultimatum to traders at the Kwadaso Onion Market, situated near the Sofoline interchange.

    They are instructed to relocate to the new site at Atwima Takyiman by midnight on April 23, 2024.

    REGSEC emphasized that no trading activities will be permitted at the current site after the specified deadline. Additionally, individuals who fail to comply with the relocation directive will be denied entry into the old market area.

    According to a press release jointly issued by REGSEC and the Kwadaso Municipal Security Committee (KMUSEC) on April 3, 2024, and signed by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah, who chairs the Ashanti Regional Security Council, demolition of the old market will commence on April 22, 2024.

    The decision to relocate the market aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the area, particularly during peak hours, caused by the parking of heavy articulated trucks along the roadsides.

    REGSEC highlighted that this practice poses significant security risks to motorists, pedestrians, and other road users, including the traders themselves.

    The release noted a recent unfortunate incident on April 1, 2024, where a Kia Pregio mini-bus collided with some traders, resulting in the loss of life for a 45-year-old woman and causing serious injuries to another individual who is currently receiving treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

    In light of these concerns, REGSEC reiterated the deadline for traders to relocate to the new site at Atwima Takyiman by midnight on April 21, 2024.

    Failure to adhere to this timeline will result in the prohibition of trading activities at the old market site and denial of entry to non-compliant traders.

  • Upper East: One dead in clash between REGSEC and illegal miners at Gbane

    Upper East: One dead in clash between REGSEC and illegal miners at Gbane

    Tensions flared in the Gbane community of the Talensi district in the Upper East Region as illegal miners vehemently opposed efforts by the Upper East Regional Security Council and the Minerals Commission to shut down the mining pits they were operating.

    The standoff occurred in the early hours of Friday, March 15, 2024, lasting nearly 7 hours as security forces, including military and police personnel, clashed with the miners, resulting in injuries among the miners.

    Sources revealed that the illegal gold miners were operating within concessions leased to Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited, a Chinese mining firm. Despite the legal ownership of the area, the miners continued their unauthorized activities, leading to frustration from authorities.

    Efforts by security forces to close the illegal mining pits were met with fierce resistance from the miners, leading to a physical altercation.

    Tensions escalated further when warning shots were fired by uniformed personnel to disperse the crowd, prompting the miners and their wives to retaliate by throwing stones at the security officers and their vehicles.

    During the chaos, a young miner was reportedly shot and critically injured, later succumbing to his injuries after being rushed to a nearby hospital.

    In response to the shooting, enraged miners stormed the operational area of the Chinese mining company, forcibly breaking through the entrance and assaulting a Chinese worker.

    The injured worker was evacuated to the company’s hospital for treatment. Sources within the company disclosed that the illegal miners had conducted extensive underground mining, connecting their pits to the company’s designated mining area, allowing them to steal gold ore during blasting operations.

    David Da’an, a miner, acknowledged that while the area was leased to Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited, compensation was paid to local concession owners for operating in the area.

    However, he questioned the need to seal off their pits if there were no connections to the company’s tunnels, emphasizing the dependence of their livelihoods on mining activities.

    Another miner, Douglas Sariya, vowed to resist any attempts to close the pits, calling on President Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia to intervene on their behalf, warning of political repercussions if their grievances were not addressed.

    “We told the company that anytime our tunnels connect theirs, we will close ours. But the fact of the matter is that our tunnels are not connected to that of the company. So, why will they want to seal off our pits?

    “If Bawumia is listening to us, he should intervene on our behalf, else, we the youth will join NDC and when that happens, we will make sure that no NPP vehicle will be allowed in Gbane for campaigning,” he declared.

  • Ban on Borteyman lands lifted

    Ban on Borteyman lands lifted

    The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has officially lifted the ban on access to the Borteyman enclave and its surrounding lands, effective immediately.

    Minister of the Interior, Henry Quartey, made the announcement during a meeting at the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), where a comprehensive plan of the area was presented by the Lands Commission.

    “We have formally lifted the security ban that restricted access to the Borteyman enclave and its adjoining lands. Therefore, land and property owners within the enclave are now free to access their properties,” stated Quartey.

    In February 2016, REGSEC, under the chairmanship of the then Regional Minister, designated Borteyman and its neighboring areas as security zones due to intelligence suggesting potential clashes between Top Kings and Empire Builders, embroiled in a longstanding land dispute.

    Attendees at the meeting included representatives of the Nungua stool lands, officials of the Lands Commission, members of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, and staff of the Nungua Traditional Council.

    Following deliberations at a meeting held on February 8, 2024, REGSEC decided to task the Lands Commission with presenting the status of affairs and demarcation of boundaries following a court ruling on land ownership.

    The Survey and Mapping Division of the Lands Commission carried out the demarcation exercise to clarify the subject matter of the court judgment, identifying boundaries encompassing 465 acres, 114.33 acres, and 62.04 acres, as specified in court judgments.

    Maxwell Adu Nsafoah, Technical Director of Lands at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, confirmed that the Lands Commission submitted a report on the demarcation of the land to the Minister for further action.

    Robert Hackman Antwi, Chief Examiner at the Survey and Mapping Division of the Lands Commission, presented the composite plan, detailing adjustments in land measurements based on the site plans utilized.

    Nii Bortey Okplen Djalesane II, Oblantai Mantse of the Nungua Traditional Area, expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Lands Commission, Ministry of Lands, and REGSEC in addressing the land dispute, which had persisted for 23 years, acknowledging the challenges encountered along the way.

  • ECG, GRIDCo summoned over dumsor in Ashanti Region 

    ECG, GRIDCo summoned over dumsor in Ashanti Region 

    Authorities of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) in the Ashanti region have been summoned by the regional minister for an emergency meeting. 

    Mr Simon Osei-Mensah who is also the Regional Security Council (RESEC) Chairman is seeking to hold this meeting with the power supply agencies to ascertain the cause and also find solutions to recent intermittent power supply in the area.  

    Some communities in the Ashanti region are grappling with incessant power cuts,popularly known as ‘dumsor.’ 

    Several communities are without electricity for 12-24 hours without any official communications from the power producers and its distribution partners in the region.

    Last week, an unstable power situation in the Ashanti region dominated radio and television discussions in the region, compelling the regional minister to step in today.

    Ashanti regional minister, Simon Osei-Mensah while confirming the scheduled meeting described the development in the region as unfortunate and therefore the need for the official meeting with managers of the ECG and GRIDCo.

    “Yes, I’m meeting them at 10am today about the inability of the power supply in Kumasi, for that matter the Ashanti region in general. The situation is not the best and we must work things out to perfect it. I will speak to you after the meeting,” he said.

  • Volta REGSEC vows to shoot down any intruding drone sighted around restricted areas

    Volta REGSEC vows to shoot down any intruding drone sighted around restricted areas

    The Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has expressed concern over the repeated sighting of drones hovering over restricted areas and security installations within the Ho Municipality and other parts of the region.

    In August 2023, following directives from REGSEC, the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) issued a warning to the public regarding the unauthorized use of drones in and around specific locations, including the Residency, 66 Artillery Regiment (Volta Barracks), Ho Central Prisons, and other restricted areas in the region.

    A statement by the REGSEC reminded “members of the general public that all restricted areas in the region and security installations are classified as security zones and must be recognised as such”.

    The REGSEC revealed it has “authorised the Military, Police, and National Security to henceforth shoot down or capture any intruding drone or flying device sighted or being operated in and around all restricted areas and security installations in the region without requisite permission”.

    It entreated members of the general public to “seek clearance” from the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and other relevant State Security Institutions “at least five (5) clear working days before undertaking any drone operations in the region”.

  • Traditional events in Nsawam, Adoagyiri banned

    Traditional events in Nsawam, Adoagyiri banned

    The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has instituted a prohibition on traditional public gatherings within Nsawam and Adoagyiri.

    This decision comes in the wake of a recent shooting incident in the locality, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives and the hospitalization of five others.

    Following his visit to the grieving families on Thursday, September 14, the Eastern Regional Minister, Mr. Seth Kwame Acheampong, conveyed a stern message to the community members, urging them to respect and comply with the provisions of the Public Order Act.

    He further encouraged residents to engage with the local police authorities before organizing any special events.

    “We are enforcing the Public Order Act, and we are asking the people within this municipality to respect the Public Order Act in particular in taking steps in respect of subsections 1 to 5,” Mr Acheampong said.

    In the midst of this unfortunate situation, the Member of Parliament for the affected area, Frank Annoh Dompreh, expressed deep regret over the unfolding events. He called upon all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritize the restoration of peace in the community.

  • Nsawam Adoagyiri residents cautioned to obey Public Order Act

    Nsawam Adoagyiri residents cautioned to obey Public Order Act

    The Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a stern warning to residents of Nsawam Adoagyiri and surrounding areas to fully adhere to the Public Order Act or face legal consequences.

    This caution comes in the wake of a shooting incident in August in Nsawam Adoagyiri that resulted in the deaths of three individuals and the hospitalization of five others.

    Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister and Chairman of REGSEC, made this statement after visiting the families affected by the tragedy.

    Mr Acheampong stressed that residents must contact the Ghana Police Service (GPS) before organizing any special events.

    “We are enforcing the public order act and we are asking the people within this municipality to respect the public order act in particular in taking steps in respect of subsections 1 to 5,” Acheampong said.

    “We are saying that each and every person that decides to hold a special event must get in touch with the appropriate state institution which is the Ghana Police Service and give them notice as the law stipulates. We expect all and sundry to abide by these enactments. We expect every person to abide by these rules.”

    Acheampong also noted that no arrests had been made yet in connection with the incident that led to the loss of three lives.

    Additionally, Frank Annoh Dompreh, the Member of Parliament for the area, called on all parties involved to maintain calm and work towards peace in the region.

    He emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying causes of the disturbance and encouraged residents and youth to exercise restraint even in cases of extreme provocation.

    “We should give peace a chance. But ordinarily, my people are peaceful. There was a cause to it and we must all be seen to be addressing that. I am happy that the regional minister has taken the matter up. The signals were on the wall so we shouldn’t take things for granted. We should just beef up security and I am sure we will come on top of the situation,” Dompreh said.

    “I am a very sad man because we are beginning to get development projects that we have never experienced in many years and all of a sudden this came in. But I am sure we will deal with it. The feedback is very encouraging. So we will continuously appeal to residents and the youth that in the case of extreme provocation they should still exercise restraint.”

  • Illegal settlers around TEMASCO given 2-weeks ultimatum to vacate

    Illegal settlers around TEMASCO given 2-weeks ultimatum to vacate

    The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has issued a stern ultimatum, giving a two-week notice to individuals unlawfully conducting trading activities within the premises of Tema Senior High School (TEMASCO) to vacate the area or face forced eviction.

    REGSEC Chairman, Henry Quartey expressed concern about the rising number of kiosks surrounding the school during discussions with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).

    He also directed a query to the Presiding Member of the Tema West Assembly regarding this worrisome trend.

    Furthermore, Henry Quartey criticized the MMDCEs in Accra for their inadequate efforts in curbing indiscipline within the city.

    Despite the implementation of policies under his “Let’s Make Greater Accra Work” initiative, aimed at addressing issues like road indiscipline, sanitation, and security, the desired results have not been achieved over the past two years.

    The city’s condition has deteriorated, with persistent litter on streets and roads and tricycles continuing to operate on major routes.

    During a meeting with the MMDCEs, Mr. Quartey expressed his disappointment with the state of affairs in the Greater Accra Region and questioned the dedication of those appointed to these positions.

  • REGSEC wants curfew hours imposed on Bawku Municipality reviewed

    REGSEC wants curfew hours imposed on Bawku Municipality reviewed

    A reassessment of the curfew imposed on Bawku Municipality inhabitants is being requested by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

    The curfew should be adjusted from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. to 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. with immediate effect, REGSEC has suggested.

    Following a critical evaluation of the circumstance in Bawku, the REGSEC made the recommendation at its meeting on Friday, April 28.

    A statement by the Office of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council said, “The Regional Security Council (REGSEC) at its meeting on Friday, 28th April 2023 reviewed the general security situation of the region and upon a critical assessment of the situation in Bawku, it recommended that the curfew hours imposed on the Bawku Municipality be reviewed from 10 pm – 4 am to 6 pm – 6 am with immediate effect”.

    REGSEC expressed hope that its views will help to temporarily help manage the security situation in the area.

    “This in our candid view would temporarily help manage the security situation in the area. Please accept our assurance of the highest esteem in this regard,” REGSEC stated.

    The protracted chieftaincy dispute in Bawku has left scores of people dead and others sustaining injuries.

    About 10 people were reported dead in recent disturbances.

    The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, during a working visit at the Bawku Naba’s palace on Saturday, April 15, 2023, assured the people of Bawku in the Upper East Region that, government will use legitimate means and the rule of law to resolve the protracted ethnic conflict in the area.

  • Police urged to ensure peaceful 2023 Homowo

    Police urged to ensure peaceful 2023 Homowo

    The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Henry Quartey, has urged the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to monitor and enforce adherence to the Greater Accra region’s prohibition on drumming and loud noises this year.

    He said a task force working with the REGSEC has been set up to collaborate with the Police and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute offenders who would fail to comply with rites preceding the celebration of the Homowo festival.

    Mr Quartey gave the directives at a news conference to usher in this year’s annual observance of silence “Nmaa Dumo” ban on noise making and drumming.

    He said the performance of customary rites preceding the celebration of Homowo festival does not in any way interfere with freedom of religion as alleged by some religious bodies or connote anything fetish as was being misconstrued by Christians.

    “The Ga Dangme, therefore, have the right to manifest their custom and religion in their own home as do other people,” he said.

    The Regional Minister said most Ga Dangme people were Christians by reason of their early contact with colonialists and asked the religious bodies not to interfere for a peaceful Homowo this year.

    Numo Akwaa Mensah III, Chief Priest of the Ga State who performed the customary rites to usher in 2023 Homowo festival outlined some of the activities during the news conference.

    He said the annual ban on drumming and noise making would start on Monday, May 15, and end on Thursday, June 15, 2023.

    Numo Akwaa Mensah said the ban affects any form of noise making including the use of loudspeakers, drums during funerals, musical instruments within the Ga State during the period.

    “All worship centres should confine their activities within their church premises, positioning of loudspeakers in mosque and roadside evangelism, use of megaphones, funeral rites and its related activities are also banned during this period.”

    King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse and the President of the Ga Traditional Council urged the public to take note and observe the rules regarding the ban on drumming and noise making to help maintain the peace, harmony, and security within the Ga State.

    He counted on the cooperation of the various stakeholders in ensuring strict observation and compliance with the Ga custom, practices, and usages.

    He urged the public to refrain from making derogatory remarks about the rites, custom, practices and beliefs of the Ga people.

  • REGSEC declares parts of East Legon security zone over feud

    REGSEC declares parts of East Legon security zone over feud

    Parts of East Legon in Accra have been designated as a high-security zone by the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

    As a result, the REGSEC is the only entity with immediate authority over all security-related issues.

    Henry Quartey, the Minister for Greater Accra, made this announcement following an urgent REGSEC meeting.

    This, he continued, is the result of information it gathered regarding the escalating hostilities between Top Kings Limited and Empire Builders, two significant feuding factions in the region.

    “The entire area under dispute has been declared a security zone. Effective today, Thursday, 16th February, 2023, REGSEC has taken over security of the area.

    “These decisions have been taken considering the fact that the situation has become a recipe for disaster and a cause for security concern in the region,” the minister said.

    http://backend.theindependentghana.com/henry-quartey-claims-npp-members-are-sabotaging-his-regional-work/

    The REGSEC has effectively also ordered for an immediate ceasure of all landguards activities in the area.

    Henry Quartey stated that, by these new directives, it is not challenging the decision of the court in the ensuing matter.

    Background

    Empire Builders Limited has been seeking to take possession of acres of land owned to Top Kings Limited, a Ghanaian owned registered real estate company, seeking to restrain Top Kings Limited, its agents, workmen and assigns from entering, selling, or having anything to do with the 456 acres of land situated at Borteyman, Tema, which is the subject of many years of litigation.

    According to a Ghanaian Times report of August 2, 2021, Justice Fred Kwasi Awuah, presiding over the case in court, observed that the conduct of the defendant amounted to abuse of the court process as the matter had already been dealt with from the lower court to the Supreme Court.

    Noting that the case had travelled more than two decades, Justice Awuah said: “Litigation must end at one point or the other.”

    On December 16, 2020, a five-member panel of the Supreme Court presided over by Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie said: “In the circumstances, we find that there is no sufficient basis in law for any appellate interference with the findings of fact made by the Trial Court as affirmed by the Court of Appeal and consequently no reason to disturb the order giving effect to those findings and conclusions made by the judgement of the Court of Appeal. Save the variation made with respect to the order of the Court of Appeal which reduced the term of plaintiff’s lease, we affirm the said judgement, and hereby dismissed the appeal.”

    In the writ filed before the Adenta High Court, the plaintiff averred that it is the proprietary owner of all that piece or parcel of land situated at Borteyman in the Tema Municipal District Assembly of the Greater Accra Region of the Republic of Ghana in extent of 62.466 acres.

    The plaintiff stated that by a certificate of title dated March 7, 1940, and registered at the Deeds Registry as No. 214/1940, two pieces or parcels of land containing a combined area of 2,570.05 acres more or less referred to as the “the Nungua Farms Land” situated at north of Nungua was compulsorily acquired by the then Government of Gold Cost from Nungua Stool.

    It is the case of the plaintiff that by a lease date August 12, 2010, the President of Ghana, acting through the Lands Commission, leased all that piece or parcel of land forming part of the Nungua Farms Land, and containing an area of 976.44 acres more or less, to the Nungua Stool, for a term of Ninety-nine (99) years with effect from April 16, 2009 to the Nungua Stool subject to the rent thereby reserved and to the performance and observance of the covenants and stipulations therein contained.

    The plaintiff further averred that by a Deed of Assignment dated August 13, 2010, Nungua Stool granted the unexpired term of the head lease dated April 16, 2010 over all that piece or parcel of land in extent of 62.466 acres to Empire Limited subject to the terms, conditions, covenants and stipulation.

    Based on that, the plaintiff asked the court to declare the land in dispute as site for Empire Builders Limited.

    Empire Builders also wanted the court to injuct Top Kings, its assigns and workmen to stop working, selling, disposing off, mortgaging in addition to costs (including counsel’s fees), award cost in damages for trespass as well as an order for recovery of possession.

    The defendant had at all material times in the course of litigation denied that the land in dispute belonged to any family from Teshie and therefore was Teshie land.

    It claimed that the land belonged to the Nungua Stool Land and stated that it had been in possession of the land since 1994.

    It is the case of the defendant that it acquired a total of 62 acres in two lots of 40 acres and 22 acres and registered the title deed in respect thereof at the Land Title Registry as No.777/ 1999.

    The defendant stated further that it had to re-acquire 8 acres out of the 40-acre lot from the Nii Whang Family of Nungua because the said family was in possession of the portion of land.

    According to the defendant, it registered the said land as AR 3222/1999 and that it paid monies to other persons claiming interest with respect to the 22 acre parcel of land to enable it register same as No.646/2000 with Land Registry No. GA 15801.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Military, police sent to Damongo prior to ruling on chieftaincy dispute

    Military, police sent to Damongo prior to ruling on chieftaincy dispute

    To avert any unrest prior to the decision of the three-member Committee on the Damongo Chieftaincy dispute, the Savannah Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is sending armed police and military men to Damongo, the regional capital.

    Two gates are claiming ownership of the Damongo skin which has left it vacant for years. 

    Savannah Regional Minister, Saed Jibeal said the law will deal with anyone who attempts to foment trouble. 

    “In this particular case, what we are saying is that if the ruling doesn’t go in your favour, that doesn’t mean you will resort to violence. No, I have said it over and over again, and the third-day funeral, I made it clear, that no individual or group of people should undermine the security that we have put in place.

    “And so we are not going to spare any individual or group of people who will want to misbehave,” the Savannah Regional Minister cautioned.

  • One dead after clash between herdsmen and locals in Afram Plains

    One dead after clash between herdsmen and locals in Afram Plains

    At Maame Krobo, in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District of the Eastern Region, a clash between farmers and nomadic herdsmen has claimed one life.

    Chairman of the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) Seth Acheampong confirmed the death after visiting the troubled area.

    The conflict resurged over the weekend between farmers at Maame Krobo and nomadic herdsmen.

    The farmers and residents allege the herdsmen shot one person at his home in the township.

    In a reprisal attack, the inhabitants chased the herdsmen out of the community.

    But the situation is still volatile as the nomadic herdsmen are suspected to be hiding in the bushes and forest areas, putting fear in the farmers who cannot visit their farms.

    Wife of the deceased Rebecca Agbovi demands justice and support for her four children who she says must return to school.

    “My children need to return to school, who would support me do that? Their father has been killed. Government must support me, else I will knock on the doors of the District Chief Executive everyday.”

    A sub-chief at Maame Krobo, Enoch Teye Soda, demanded that the perpetrators must be dealt with.

    “The man was shot in his room. They shot through his window, he only had cloth wrapped around him. This is frightening, we can’t allow this to happen. Those who did this must be dealt with. My farmers cannot even go to their farms again.”

    Security presence is still heavy in the area.

    Mr Acheampong, who is also the Eastern Region Minister, visited Maame Krobo and assured of public safety to enable normalcy to return to the area.

    “It is our mandate to provide public safety for the community. So we are going to work at it. You can never predict that an accident would occur. Nobody thought that this would occur, but it has happened. Once it has happened, the most important thing for us is to demonstrate enough rapid response and I am very happy that the security services and the DISEC ( District Security Council) have rapidly responded to the situation at hand. We are very confident that going forward, we would restore normalcy to the community.”

    He added: “Very disturbing matter for the district and those of us in the region. This is a matter that is recurring. We seek to work at it to ensure it does not recur. Unfortunately as humans we cannot allow some of these things not to occur again. For us managing public safety, our first responsibility is to ensure that there is stability, peace and people are going about their daily chores undisturbed.

    “Our primary call was to restore stability and peace to the community, fortunately public safety is assured, we have enough men on ground patrolling and offering necessary protection to the community members so that they have assurance that government is behind them.”

    Successive government intervention of Operation Cow leg and the provision of ranches has not yielded result in putting an end to the conflict between farmers and nomadic herdsmen in the food basket district.

    The conflict results from destruction of farm crops by the herdsmen to feed cattles and reprisal attack on cattles and nomadic herdsmen, who usually are not owners of the cattles.

  • Bawku violence: Don’t engage military in combat – REGSEC warns locals

    Bawku violence: Don’t engage military in combat – REGSEC warns locals

    The feuding factions in Bawku have been urged to halt exchanging gunfire with military troops by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

    The appeal follows reports of the military killing seven civilians in Bawku in the Upper East Region.

    The accusation which was first made by the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has been refuted by the Ghana Armed Forces.

    The military, however, claimed that they engaged some armed men and in the process neutralised six people.

    “In a separate incident, sporadic firing was heard around Sabongari General Area. A Patrol Team dispatched to assess the situation spotted unknown armed men at Gozesi-Valley side in Sabongari wearing black T-shirts with Black Hoodies. Troops engaged them and neutralised six (6) armed men. During the engagement, some armed men took cover in a mud house within the immediate vicinity to engage the Team,” the Ghana Armed Forces said in a statement.

    But the Chairman of the Security Council, Stephen Yakubu, speaking to journalists urged all persons in Bawku to remain calm and give peace a chance for the town to thrive.

    “I want to appeal through this medium that let’s give peace a chance because Bawku is virtually dying and I am very concerned.”

    Below is a statement from the Upper East Regional Coordinating Director:

  • Krobea Asante TVET students apologise for vandalizing school properties

    Krobea Asante TVET students apologise for vandalizing school properties

    Some Krobea Asante Technical Vocational School students who vandalized school property have apologized to their teachers and the public.

    The students have pleaded with the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to allow them back to school.

    The school was shut down temporarily by REGSEC after students went on rampage on Sunday destroying school properties including six vehicles.

    The students caused a power outage and broke into the storerooms of the school and scattered food items.

    The students have since been sent home with authorities finding solutions to the problem

    Speaking to OTEC News Jacob Agyenim Boateng, on January 24, 2023, some female students of the school said they were worried the situation may affect their future.

    While condemning the acts of their male colleagues, the students have appealed to authorities in the region to help re-open the facility for them to continue their education.

    “Like any unqualified apology, the first step is to acknowledge that you were wrong. Then all you have to do is look in that person’s face and say we are truly sorry for what happened and we hope our teachers and the public will forgive us”.

    “We would like to render an unqualified apology to all especially our tutors for the inconveniences caused by the excesses of the protest that resulted in the destruction of school properties and the consequential closure of the school”.

    “We are grateful to all relevant stakeholders for the steps taken already to restore calm in the school, but we are still pleading with them to save our educational career,” they added.

  • Bono regional minister encourages officers to wear uniforms to 31st night activities

    Following possible incidents of criminal activities and attacks during December 31st night activities to mark the New Year, Mad. Justina Owusu Banahene, the Bono Regional Minister, who is also the Chairman of the Bono Regional Security Council (REGSEC), is encouraging security officers to wear their uniforms when they attend religious services to make congregations feel safer.

    Mad. Justina Owusu Banahene encouraged all uniform men to wear their uniforms to church programs to deter criminal activities, especially the New Year church services.

    “In the wake of the possible attacks and criminal activities in 31st December programs, I will encourage our officers who attend worship services to do so in full uniform as long as their bosses and the church leaders are okay with the decision.

    The REGSEC Chief said officers should first let their superiors and the churches know they are going to be in uniform.

    According to her, this simple act will help reassure congregants, as well as, serve as a deterrent for anyone intending harm.

    Mad. Justina Owusu Banahene also cautioned the public to be security conscious while indulging in activities to mark the New Year.

    This is because criminals frequently took advantage of the excitement that typified the night of December 31, to indulge in unlawful activities.

    Chairman of the Bono REGSEC said that December 31st night activities mainly entail church services and other forms of social meetings which easily got people excited to the point of losing their usual sense of caution.

    The regional minister, therefore, advised people to be extra cautious when leaving their homes for the various activities that would be organised to mark the New Year.

    She said it is worth knowing that criminals are well aware of this and could easily take advantage of the situation.

    She said it is critical for everyone to realise that security is a shared responsibility between the police and the public, assuring that while the police would be doing their best to ensure safety, the police need the full cooperation of the public for maximum security to be ensured.

    Mad Owusu Banahene reiterated that it is very important for citizens to be vigilant to ensure security in their homes, and do their best to prevent any break-in during “the cross-overs and the pass-overs”

    With regard to citizens’ security and safety, the REGSEC Chief advised that car users should ensure that their cars are well-serviced and in good condition, and try as much as possible to choose multiple routes to avoid being traced and tracked.

    She again advised people going out for social activities to be cautious with the people they move with. She advised young ladies, especially to ensure that they don’t get overtaken by excitement and risk their safety.

    Mad. Owusu Banahene urged parents and guardians to accompany their children to church services and all other occasions during New Year’s eve celebrations since unaccompanied children could be easily targeted by kidnappers.

    She again urged people to move in groups, as much as possible, and to also plan their routes very carefully, so as not to risk falling victim to lurking criminals.

    The regional minister said both pedestrians and motorists should be careful with either accepting or offering lifts, adding that whilst criminals often kidnapped people by pretending to offer lifts, they could also pose as stranded pedestrians to harm unsuspecting motorists.

    She urged neighbourhoods to collaborate on crime prevention as much as possible and ensure that their homes are properly locked up or watched over, as they leave for the 31st Night activities.

    “We advise churches, nightclub owners, pubs, event organisers and all others who run places where patrons park their cars, to be particular with providing maximum security for these cars,” she added.

    The regional minister also cautioned people on the need to stay safe with social media updates saying, “be careful how much you put out there because you could give clues to criminals through your updates”.

    She advised the public to take advantage of the heavy police presence to quickly report suspicious persons and situations to help protect life and property.

  • Renewed Chieftaincy clash in Bawku allegedly claims lives

    There has been a renewed Chieftaincy clash at Bawku in the Upper East Region, despite the imposition of curfew and other security measures.

    Although the Police and the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) are yet to come out with the number of fatalities in the clash, the Ghana News Agency (GNA) sources revealed that a few persons lost their lives, while others were injured.

    Heavy gunshots were fired within the Bawku Township, compelling the REGSEC to enforce the security situation in the area with additional security measures, including enhanced restrictions.

    A statement signed on behalf of Mr Stephen Yakubu, the Upper East Regional Minister and Chairman of the REGSEC, by Inusah Abubakari Alhaji, the Regional Chief Director and copied to GNA, noted that the measures were taken after emergency meeting held on Monday.

    “The Police, Ghana Immigration Service and the Military are allowed to use official motorbikes between 0600 hours to 1800 hours”, it stated.

    A temporal ban had also been placed on the use of tricycles (yellow yellow), until further notice and curfew hours extended to cover Nayoka, Kpalgu and Manga communities.

    Apart from the curfew imposed on the Bawku Township and its environs from 2000 hours to 0500 hours, a ban had earlier been placed on the wearing of smock and riding of motorbikes.

    The Regional Minister told GNA in an interview that the review of the security measures in the area was to strengthen surveillance and enable the security agencies to effectively deal with current trends of causing crime and igniting the conflict.

    He said the REGSEC had gathered intelligence that some people involved in the conflict used the tricycles to commit crime and urged the residents to report any suspicious characters to the security agencies for rapid action.

    “With the information that is only privy to REGSEC and based on what we have achieved and what we have not achieved, we think that what we are doing is the best option because we know what is happening in Bawku.

    “Yesterday for instance, there were heavy gunshots in Bawku and people are using the tricycles to commit these crimes,” he said.

    Mr Yakubu said although the decision taken had consequences on the movement of people and economic activities, it was necessary to restore peace in the area and called for support from the public especially residents of Bawku.

    “These are things that we do with a heavy heart, but we have really measured in whatever action that we take but what we are praying for is peace to return to Bawku.”

    The protracted conflict is partly due to a disagreement over the performance of the funeral of a Chief who died more than 42 years ago, to pave way for the enskinment of another Chief.

    Meanwhile, the government, through the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, noted that the Chieftaincy disagreement was settled by the Supreme Court in 2003 and urged all parties to respect the ruling.

    Source: GNA