We are deeply concerned about the recent incident that occurred in Teshie, involving personnel from the Greater Accra Regional Police Command and soldiers from the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Army. The clash over a disputed parcel of land behind the LEKMA Hospital is a matter of great significance and requires careful attention.
It is disconcerting to learn that the soldiers were allegedly providing landguard services, despite a police directive barring all parties from trespassing on the disputed land. The confrontation that ensued when officers from the Greater Accra Regional Police Command were dispatched to halt ongoing construction on the site is a clear indication of the gravity of the situation.
The Regional police command had previously issued a directive that neither party should access the land until the legitimate owner was determined by the court. However, it is deeply troubling that upon arrival, the police were reportedly ambushed by military personnel who were guarding the site on behalf of one of the disputing parties, in direct defiance of the police directives.
The fact that the situation could have escalated into an armed confrontation if not for the restraint and professionalism of the police is alarming. It is unacceptable that despite multiple calls from senior police officials, the soldiers refused to vacate the site where they had been occupying illegally for over a week. The reported threat to shoot any police officer attempting to stop the construction work is a serious breach of law and order.
The standoff between the police and soldiers has understandably attracted the attention of local residents and property developers, who have expressed outrage at the unprofessional conduct of the soldiers. The accusations of harassment and intimidation in the area are deeply troubling and must be addressed with the utmost seriousness.
It is imperative to note that landguard activities are illegal under Ghanaian law, and it is deeply concerning that military personnel were reportedly engaged in such activities. The leadership of the military must take responsibility for allowing their personnel to be involved in such unlawful conduct.
In light of these events, it is commendable that the Greater Accra Regional Police Command has commenced investigations into the matter. The warning to deal with any person behind Monday’s incident is a necessary step towards upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability.
It is our hope that a swift and thorough investigation will be conducted, and appropriate action will be taken to address this troubling incident. The resolution of land disputes must be conducted within the bounds of the law, and all parties involved must adhere to legal directives and procedures.
We urge all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, adherence to legal processes, and respect for the rule of law in resolving land disputes. It is only through such concerted efforts that we can ensure peace, justice, and stability in our communities.
-source Newsghana | curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
