Kumasi Mayor Defends Demolition of Illegal Structures at Asafo

The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly is continuing with the demolition of unauthorised structures at Asafo, with Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi saying the exercise is necessary to protect waterways and prevent flooding in the area.

Speaking on the operation that commenced on July 8, 2026, Mayor Boadi said the assembly is targeting structures that have been illegally placed in areas that have a negative impact on the environment, particularly those sited in waterways.

“We are making sure that structures that are illegally placed in areas that give the environment a negative impact are cleared, especially those in waterways. You agree that the Subin drain is around that area.

“We went to desilt, and we identified many illegal structures. Our intention is to clear them. Once we are able to clear all these, we can sanitise the areas and have access to areas that we have to desilt to prevent flooding,” he said.

The Mayor also disclosed that some of the structures belong to police officers and are allegedly being used for prostitution and the sale of hard drugs.

He said the matter has been reported to the Regional Police Command for investigation.

“There are some police officers who own structures there, and I am told they are used for prostitution and the sale of hard drugs. We have taken steps to report the said police officer to the Regional Police Command. Once they are done with their investigation, we will see how we can proceed, but the demolition will continue,” he stated.

Mayor Boadi added that the exercise has been met with resistance, resulting in damage to assembly property and injuries to personnel.

He said one pickup and an excavator belonging to the assembly were vandalised, and that damaged equipment would be repaired.

According to him, about four personnel were injured during the operation.

“The injured were taken to the police station; their statements have been taken, and they have been issued medical forms, and we will take them to the hospital for medical care,” he said.

The Mayor maintained that the assembly will return with equipment to continue the demolition as part of efforts to sanitise Asafo and improve drainage in Kumasi.

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