By Muyid Deen Suleman, GNA
Asawase (Ash) July 31, GNA – The Asokore-Mampong Municipal Assembly, on Thursday, July 30, 2026, began the demolition of a notorious slum at New Zongo, otherwise known as Sabon Zongo in Asawase.
The exercise, which was carried out in broad daylight, was supervised by a joint heavily armed military and police personnel, who blocked key access routes to the community to prevent residents and onlookers from interfering with the exercise.
Officials moved in with demolition equipment and monitored the area closely as structures were pulled down.
Several wooden structures perceived to serve as gathering points for unlawful and criminal activities were pulled down.
The slum has long been associated with criminal activities and other social vices, such as narcotic drugs peddling, den for armed robbers and car snatchers, as well as other criminal activities.
In some instances, tyre burning had been linked to thick smoke that reduced visibility on nearby streets, while also creating health hazards for residents and nearby traders.
The Ghana News Agency recalled that in a recent scenario, the situation reportedly escalated after the murder of a 27-year-old man, Yusuf Zakari, in the area.
The accounts on the issue had indicated that Yusuf the victim, was allegedly attacked and killed by a gang of wee smokers operating within and around the slum.
Some eyewitnesses said the attack occurred near the usual meeting spots of the suspected group, prompting immediate fear and concern among residents.
The deceased was also said to have been accused of stealing Ghs 4,800.00 belonging to one of the gang members.
This allegation, which neighbours described as a common cause of violence in the area, is believed to have triggered the fatal confrontation.
As a result, the Assembly and security agencies indicated that the demolition was necessary to curb further criminal activities and to restore calm around Sabon Zongo community.
Meanwhile, some residents have expressed mixed reactions, with others calling for more proactive policing and social intervention, including job support and youth engagement programmes to prevent a repeat of similar incidents in neighbouring communities.
Some authorities of the assembly told GNA that they would ensure that all structures were pulled down to ensure safety and security.
GNA
Edited by Kwabia Owusu-Mensah/ Christabel Addo