National Security personnel in the Ashanti Region have arrested 15 people suspected of engaging in unauthorised sand-winning activities along the Accra-Kumasi Expressway project.
The operation, conducted within the Sewua–Donyina–Appiadu enclave, also resulted in the impoundment of six trucks, a wheel loader and other equipment allegedly used to excavate and transport sand from the project site.
The suspects have been transferred to Accra for further questioning, according to National Security personnel who confirmed the arrests to the media.
The operation follows the circulation of a viral video purportedly showing individuals removing sand from the expressway construction site for commercial purposes.
Security officials say efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend other suspected individuals who remain at large.
Bosomtwe DCE rejects claims of Assembly’s inaction
Bosomtwe District Chief Executive, Ing. Abdullah Hamidu, has confirmed the incident in an interview with Citi FM, rejecting suggestions that the District Assembly was unaware of the activities.
His response follows reports that an opinion leader in Sewua-Ayoum had handed over the land to the individuals allegedly involved in the sand-winning operations.
Mr Hamidu said the Assembly had convened an emergency meeting with traditional leaders and Assembly Members from the affected communities to prevent further environmental damage and safeguard the expressway project.
Regional authorities plan increased surveillance
The Ashanti Regional Security Council is expected to meet to discuss measures to strengthen surveillance along the affected stretch and prevent a recurrence of the activities.
The arrests come amid concerns about unauthorised excavation and the potential impact of sand-winning on the environment and infrastructure development.
Further action is expected as investigations continue into the alleged activities and efforts to identify other people connected to the operation.
