By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu
Koluedor (Ada), Sept. 13, GNA — Tomato farmers in Ada, particularly those in the Koluedor farming enclave in the Ada West District, have been urged to strengthen security around their farms, following reports of tomato theft amid favourable market prices.
Local observers said suspected thieves had been moving around farms during the early morning and late-night hours, using torchlights to identify and harvest ripe tomatoes for subsequent sale.
The development has raised concern among farmers, who are already contending with production losses following persistent heavy rainfall that has affected tomato cultivation in parts of the area.
Mr Daniel Kitcher, a tomato farmer at Koluedor, said farmers were prepared to take additional measures to protect their farms and produce, describing the reported theft as an added challenge to their livelihoods.
He said farmers invested considerable resources, time and labour in cultivating their crops and could not afford to lose their produce to people seeking to profit from their hard work.
Mr Kitcher therefore called for increased community vigilance and cooperation among farmers to safeguard farms and prevent theft.
He encouraged residents in the farming communities to report suspicious movements around tomato farms, particularly during the night and early morning, to assembly members, farmer welfare committees, community leaders or the nearest police station.
The farmers said stronger community vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities would be essential to protecting their investments and safeguarding tomato production in the area.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Christabel Addo
Reporter: Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA