A joint police and military team has been deployed to Adum Bluelight trading hub in Kumasi following protests by traders affected by a recent fire outbreak.
The deployment was prompted by tensions between the traders and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) after city authorities cordoned off the area to prevent rebuilding efforts while official consultations were underway.
The traders, frustrated by the delay in returning to business, reportedly dismantled the barricades and began business, leading to the presence of security forces.
The fire, which ravaged parts of the busy trading area last month, left several traders without their shops and sources of income. Many have accused the KMA of neglect and say the lack of swift support has worsened their situation.
Amid the standoff, former National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) executive, Daniel Oppong Kyeremeh, visited the scene to donate relief items to the affected traders. He expressed concern over the situation and criticised the deployment of armed security personnel.
Tensions remain high in the area, though calm had been restored by midday.
The KMA has yet to issue an official statement on the protest or the security deployment.
Local traders say they are prepared to engage with the Assembly, but insist their livelihoods cannot wait indefinitely.
