Three construction workers, a mason, and two labourers suffered severe injuries during a police raid on a four-story stall complex and an apartment block under construction on disputed land in Adjirigano. The injured workers were taken to the Adjirigano Community Health Centre for treatment.
The injured workers recounted their ordeal to the media, stating that they were on-site when armed police officers arrived and ordered them to cease work. While complying with the directive, some of the officers allegedly assaulted them, resulting in their injuries.
The land dispute has become a power struggle involving high-ranking police officers, with accusations directed at the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. While the IGP has denied involvement, sources indicate that some officers at the regional command are allegedly using his name to exert influence.
Greater Accra Regional Police Commander DCOP Arhin has been accused of ordering the raid. In a phone interview, he claimed the action was based on a distress call from the Police Headquarters’ Legal Department, citing a petition from a woman alleging encroachment on her land by land guards. However, checks revealed that the case is an ongoing litigation between private parties, and no such petitioner exists.
Meanwhile, the widow, Mrs Prempeh, whose late husband’s residence was recently demolished in connection with the dispute, has denied making any such petition. Despite the court’s directive for Alhaji Theophilus Teiko Tagoe to resolve the matter through the bailiff section, he allegedly ignored the order and, with the support of top police officials, orchestrated actions to destabilize the residence.
The Nungua Traditional Council, Silver City Limited, and Madam Prempeh have called on President John Dramani Mahama, the IGP, the Judicial Service, the media, and the public to intervene against what they describe as ongoing harassment and land-guard activities.
In a press statement, the council expressed gratitude for the initial support that brought temporary peace but emphasized that the legal process must be upheld.
A court order has directed Mr. Tagoe to cease all activities on the disputed land following the filing of an interpleader action. However, allegations have surfaced that he, with the backing of two police officers, Mr Arhin and Mr Danso, is attempting to circumvent the court’s directive by seeking police protection under false pretences.
The Nungua Traditional Council insists that the area remains peaceful due to court intervention, refuting claims of worker harassment. They fear an attempt to resume demolitions under the guise of police protection will disrupt the stability of the community.
“We are appealing once again to H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Ghana Police Service, the Judicial Service, the media, and the public to help us stop this barbaric land-guard activity facilitated by certain public officials,” the council stated.
They emphasized that the interpleader action, filed under Order 44 Rule 12 of the High Court Civil Procedure Rules (C.I. 47), legally halts any execution process until the matter is resolved in court. Any attempt to undermine this process, they argue, is unlawful and endangers the safety of residents.
The Nungua Traditional Council and its allies urge authorities to take urgent action to prevent further harassment and ensure lasting peace in the community, calling for accountability for all parties involved in defying the court’s orders.
