An armed taskforce operating under the purported authority of the Akyem Abuakwa Traditional Council has reportedly invaded and destroyed a 100-acre land slated for the construction of a £25 million industrial community.
The targeted site is located at Kyekyewere near Suhum along the Accra to Kumasi Highway in the Eastern Region.
The land, acquired by Blue Skies company in 2018 for an ambitious project set to commence in March, fell victim to armed individuals associated with illegal sand-winning activities.
Operating under the cover of darkness, the armed group, equipped with guns and heavy machinery, caused extensive destruction, damaging 50% of the land.
Journalists visiting the site witnessed the aftermath, revealing not only the devastation to the industrial park but also the destruction of 350 cedar plants planted by Blue Skies as part of their environmental sustainability plan.
Additionally, approximately 50 smallholder caretaker farmers have suffered losses as their farms were destroyed by the illegal sand winners claiming the land belongs to Okyenhene hence working under his authority.
Alistair Djimatey, the Public Relations Manager of Blue Skies Company Limited, expressed shock over the incident.
The investors are now contemplating whether to proceed with the project, which was expected to create employment opportunities for 4000 people and generate electricity for both industrial activities and the local community.
The company has promptly reported the incident to the police, hoping for the swift arrest and punishment of the perpetrators.
The Ayensuano district, where the incident occurred, has a history of illegal sand-winning activities, often leading to clashes between farmers and sand winners, sometimes involving armed land guards and resulting in tragic deaths.
The recent incident emphasises the pressing need for effective measures to address and prevent such conflicts in the region.
Meanwhile Office of Okyenhene Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin has denied authorizing such illegality.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
