The Ghana Police Service has issued a stern warning to the organizers of the Democracy Hub protest following significant disruptions caused by demonstrators at the 37 Intersection in Accra.
This warning comes amid ongoing disagreements between the police and the protest organizers regarding the designated protest locations.
Democracy Hub is embarking on three-day protest against government over illegal mining that has led to pollution of river bodies and destroying arable farmlands.
In an official statement, the police revealed that they had initiated a special operation to maintain public safety and order, resulting in roadblocks and traffic diversions in affected areas.
Officers from the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) were deployed to manage the situation.
“The demonstrators unlawfully took over the 37 Intersection, engaging in acts intended to cause extreme inconvenience to the public,” a police spokesperson said. “Their actions included blocking the intersection with vehicles and stones, setting fires, and harassing road users.”
These actions have had a profound impact on the community, with many commuters trapped in traffic for hours. The police noted that individuals seeking medical attention faced delays, and families attempting to visit loved ones in hospitals struggled to deliver essential supplies.
“We witnessed families trying to reach hospitals being delayed, as well as significant disruptions to social and cultural activities,” the spokesperson added. “This shows a clear intention to disrupt rather than to protest peacefully.”
The police have reiterated that protests will not be permitted at the 37 Intersection and have urged the organizers to relocate to one of the seven alternative locations they proposed.
“If the organizers insist on protesting in unauthorized locations, the police will use all lawful means to ensure the free movement of traffic and prevent further inconvenience to the public,” the spokesperson warned.
The police expressed gratitude to the public for their cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring security and order throughout the city.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
