Military Officer, Two KMA Taskforce Members Injured During Violent Demolition Exercise at Asafo Overpass
Mayor vows to return with stronger security as police investigate attacks on demolition team
- Three injured in the clash during the demolition exercise.
- Vehicles vandalised as squatters resisted the operation
- KMA vows to resume the demolition with stronger security
Three members of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) taskforce, including a military officer, sustained injuries after a violent confrontation erupted during a demolition exercise at the Asafo overpass in Kumasi.
The incident happened on Wednesday when KMA officials, backed by police and military personnel, began removing unauthorized structures located behind the COCOBOD building.
According to the Assembly, the structures had been illegally erected and were obstructing the natural flow of the Subin River, contributing to persistent flooding in sections of the Kumasi metropolis.
The operation turned violent after some occupants of the structures reportedly resisted the exercise by hurling stones, sticks, and other objects at the demolition team. Three taskforce members, including a soldier, were injured, forcing officials to temporarily suspend the exercise and regroup.
Tensions escalated further when a military officer fired a warning shot in an attempt to disperse the crowd. However, some squatters continued attacking the team.
The violence also resulted in damage to two KMA taskforce vehicles and an excavator used for the demolition. Their windscreens were smashed, while several tyres were deflated.
As the demolition continued, affected traders rushed to salvage their goods from the collapsing structures. Meanwhile, some occupants complained that they had not received prior notice of the exercise and expressed concern over the loss of their businesses and livelihoods.
Speaking after the operation, Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi confirmed that the incident had been reported to the Ashanti Regional Police Command for investigation.
He disclosed that the injured personnel had been issued medical forms for treatment and were all in stable condition.
The Mayor vowed that the Assembly would return with reinforced security to complete the demolition and ensure those responsible for the attacks are arrested.
He maintained that the operation was necessary to reduce flooding and eliminate criminal activities in the area, alleging that the location had become a hub for prostitution, drug abuse, and other illegal acts, posing a significant security threat to the city.
