One dead, others injured over land demolition dispute at Akwatia Line in Kumasi

One Dead, Two Injured as Demolition Exercise Turns Violent in Kumasi

One person has been confirmed dead, with two others severely injured, following a violent confrontation during a demolition exercise at Akwatia Line, a suburb of Kumasi.

The incident occurred on Wednesday morning when a private developer, reportedly claiming ownership of a disputed parcel of land occupied largely by traders, arrived at the scene with a police escort to carry out a demolition operation.

According to eyewitnesses, the traders resisted the exercise, insisting they had received no prior notice or formal eviction order. The land in question is currently the subject of ongoing litigation, with ownership yet to be determined by the court.

The developer, identified only as “Bossu,” has reportedly been asserting claims over the land for several months. Despite the unresolved legal dispute, traders say they were alarmed to wake up to demolition activities being undertaken under police supervision.

Tensions quickly escalated as traders confronted the police task force, vowing to resist the destruction of their properties. In the ensuing clash, an unidentified man was fatally shot, while two others sustained serious injuries.

At the scene, at least four spent bullet casings were reportedly recovered. Traders have accused both the police and individuals linked to the developer of firing shots during the confrontation.

Ibrahim Alhassan, a leader among the traders, confirmed the chaos that unfolded and condemned the manner in which the operation was carried out.

The demolition has left many traders displaced, with goods worth thousands of cedis destroyed.

Meanwhile, the Manhyia District Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three individuals in connection with the incident. Investigations are ongoing.