KMA DEMOLISHES UNAUTHORISED STRUCTURES AT BAYAKASUA SLUM TO IMPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY AND SANITATION
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), under the leadership of the Metropolitan Chief Executive (City Mayor), Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, on 17th July 2026, undertook a major demolition exercise at the Bayakasua slum community located behind the COCOBOD building in Kumasi.
The operation, which commenced at approximately 6:30 a.m., formed part of the Assembly's ongoing efforts to reclaim public lands, improve sanitation, and enhance security within the metropolis.
The exercise was carried out under heavy security, with the deployment of approximately 40 Police officers, 20 Military personnel, and Metro Guards to provide protection for the demolition team and ensure public order. The security presence was considered necessary following an incident last week during a sanitation enforcement operation in the same area, where officers of the Assembly were reportedly attacked and pelted with stones by some residents.
The Bayakasua settlement has long been identified as a hotspot for criminal activities, including the sale and abuse of illicit drugs, prostitution, robbery, phone and bag snatching, and other unlawful acts. The area has also been associated with persistent sanitation challenges and reports of illegal electricity and water connections.
As of the time of reporting, approximately 500 unauthorised wooden structures had been demolished. Officials of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) disconnected power supply to the area before the exercise and subsequently retrieved about 100 illegally connected electricity meters. The Ghana Water Limited team also undertook repairs on damaged pipelines and disconnected illegal water connections to prevent further losses and safeguard public infrastructure.
The operation was conducted without any reported casualties or injuries to both residents and security personnel. There was also no resistance from occupants of the settlement during the exercise.
According to the Assembly, the land on which the settlement was established belongs to the Ghana Railway Authority (GRA), and investigations indicate that none of the occupants possessed valid development permits or authorisation from the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly to erect structures or conduct commercial activities on the site.
Some residents alleged that officials of the Ghana Railway Authority had leased portions of the land to them. These claims are expected to be investigated by the appropriate authorities.
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing planning regulations, protecting public lands, improving environmental sanitation, and ensuring the safety and security of residents. The Assembly also indicated that similar enforcement exercises would continue across the metropolis to restore order and promote sustainable urban development.
Signed
HENRIETTA A.K. ABOAGYE
PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
KMA