The Ghana Police Service apprehended five men in East Legon Extension for their alleged involvement in land guard activities. According to reports from 3News, the suspects were found in possession of offensive weapons which they allegedly used to threaten property developers and residents. The arrests occurred following complaints regarding the forceful occupation of land and the harassment of legitimate owners in the area.
A statement from the Ghana Police Service indicates that the suspects are currently in custody and assisting with investigations. The police have identified the suppression of land guard activities as a priority to ensure the safety of property owners and the general public. Citi Newsroom reports that such activities often involve the use of specialized groups to settle land disputes through intimidation rather than legal channels.
While the specific identities of the suspects have not been released by the police, Graphic Online reports that the individuals face charges related to the prohibition of land guarding activities under the Land Act 2020. This legislation prescribes stiff penalties for anyone found sponsoring or participating in land guard operations. The police have also seized items believed to be tools of intimidation used by the group during the operation.
Authorities have urged residents of East Legon and surrounding areas to report any instances of land-related violence to the nearest police station. GhanaWeb reports that several developers have previously expressed concern over the rising influence of armed groups in land transactions within the Greater Accra Region. The suspects are expected to be processed for court once preliminary investigations into the East Legon incident are completed.