Police in Tarkwa have launched an investigation into an alleged case of harassment and property damage stemming from a rent renewal dispute between a landlady and her tenant in Efuanta, a suburb of the mining town.
The tenant, identified as Comfort, reported to authorities that she initially rented the apartment for one year at GH¢2,000. Upon the expiration of the tenancy, she informed the landlady, known locally as Last Hour, of her readiness to renew the agreement and had the funds available.
According to Comfort, the landlady, who does not reside on the premises, declined to collect the rent at that time, stating she would be contacted when payment was required. Comfort claims there was no further communication for approximately four months.
The situation reportedly escalated when the landlady later contacted Comfort, demanding a new rent of GH¢3,500 – an increase of GH¢1,500. Comfort stated she pleaded with the landlady to accept the original rent, arguing that the increment was introduced without prior notice and after she had made plans based on the initial agreement. The landlady allegedly rejected this plea and insisted Comfort vacate the premises, leading to an argument.
Later the same day, while Comfort was away, the landlady allegedly returned and removed the main gate leading to the apartment. Comfort subsequently reported the incident to the Tarkwa Railway Police Station.
Police officers, accompanied by the Assembly Member for the area, visited the apartment to verify the complaint. Upon entering the room, officials reportedly encountered a strong stench of human faeces. Information gathered at the scene suggests that human waste had allegedly been sprayed in various parts of the room and onto the tenant’s personal belongings. Further checks and community inquiries reportedly implicated the landlady in the act.