Six persons have been arrested at the China Mall project site in Koforidua. A joint team from National Security Secretariat, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the Ghana Police Service carried out the arrests. The controversial construction site, located at Kenkey Factory, is now a restricted security zone.
These arrests occurred because developers reportedly restarted construction activities. This defiance came despite a stop-work order from the Eastern Regional Security Council (REGSEC). The project has caused significant concern among the public for potentially worsening drainage issues. Residents repeatedly blame the project for increased flooding in parts of Koforidua.
This enforcement action shows a critical escalation in a long-running dispute over the China Mall project. It highlights the government's resolve to enforce planning regulations and protect environmental assets. Previous projects have also faced scrutiny for impacting natural waterways. This aligns with broader efforts to mitigate urban flooding across Ghana, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Eastern Regional National Security Coordinator, Francis Annoh-Dompreh, condemned the developers' actions. He stated developers disregarded lawful directives from regional security authorities. Mr. Annoh-Dompreh emphasized that public safety remains paramount. He warned security agencies will continue to enforce the stop-work order without bias. Ghanaian workers were also cautioned against returning to the site.
This crackdown signals that authorities will not tolerate non-compliance with regulatory directives. Decision-makers and affected communities will watch for the developers' response and future enforcement actions. The outcome will influence how other developers approach similar projects in Ghana. It will also test the effectiveness of regional security councils in urban planning enforcement.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, earlier ordered an immediate halt to construction. This order followed her inspection of the site. She expressed concerns about the project's impact on stormwater management and public safety. Security sources gathered intelligence indicating work had quietly resumed despite explicit instructions. REGSEC had mandated the completion of agreed drainage reconstruction works before any further building.
National Security operatives conducted a surprise operation during a heavy downpour. This operation on Thursday night led to the arrest of a security guard. A second operation on Friday resulted in the arrest of six workers. These workers were allegedly engaged in activities at the site. Some Chinese developers reportedly locked themselves inside a building and would not come out. Several other workers fled into nearby bushes.
The project has generated widespread controversy since local construction began. Residents and environmental advocates argue parts of the development are on a natural watercourse. This watercourse previously channeled stormwater from the Nsukwao stream. Developers reportedly agreed with REGSEC and Koforidua Municipal Assembly on major drainage improvements. These included reconstructing a drainage network near a traffic-light intersection. Authorities insist these obligations must be fulfilled before further construction.
Investigations into the alleged breach of the stop-work order are ongoing. Authorities maintain a heightened security presence at the site. This presence aims to prevent any further construction activity. This incident highlights growing concerns about developments that obstruct waterways. Such obstructions contribute significantly to urban flooding.