Residents of Mangoline, a community in the Ga South Municipality of Greater Accra, are living in fear following a violent incident involving alleged landguards demanding digging fees.
Recently, a family, including a three-year-old child, was attacked with knives after refusing to comply with the demands of the purported landguards. The attack has left the entire community on edge, uncertain about further violence from these individuals who operate under the guise of Asafo groups.
According to Kwame Adom, a resident deeply affected by the incident, the activities of these land guards have escalated to include demands for fees related to tiling and roofing beyond traditional digging fees. He expressed frustration over the situation, describing it as threatening the community’s safety and normalcy.
“The family has since fled the area due to trauma, and the community is urging police intervention,” Adom stated. He highlighted the challenges faced by the Denkyira Police, who are responsible for maintaining order but lack adequate resources, including operational vehicles.
“We have attempted to persuade the affected family to return, but they are reluctant due to their traumatic experience. The situation has deteriorated to the point where residents sometimes need to hire taxis to transport police to the area,” Adom added.
Despite efforts by authorities, including the arrest of two suspects with others still at large, concerns remain high regarding ongoing security threats posed by these individuals.
The incident underscores broader issues of security and law enforcement in the area, prompting calls for enhanced police presence and resources to ensure the safety of residents and deter criminal activities.
