Traders at the makeshift Takoradi Market are urgently calling on authorities to provide night security, as they face a surge in armed robberies that threaten their livelihoods.
The traders, who were relocated from the Takoradi Market Circle to a temporary site, report frequent thefts occurring mainly at night.
Speaking to Asaase News, vendors expressed frustration over the ongoing theft of goods, including yam tubers, gallons of oil, and vegetables.
Elizabeth Quansah, a yam seller, highlighted that theft has persisted for several years, prompting her and others to call the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) and the government to deploy security personnel.
Rosemond Ofori, a smoked fish seller, noted that the rising crime has led many traders to stop paying market tolls to STMA as a protest against the lack of security. This protest, she emphasized, is not only a sign of their frustration but also a significant loss of revenue for the STMA.
Traders have warned that if their concerns are not addressed, they may resort to demonstrations to draw attention to the issue. These demonstrations, they clarified, would be peaceful and aimed at highlighting the urgency of their security needs.
In addition to requesting enhanced security, the traders are also urging the government to expedite the completion of the stalled Takoradi Market Circle project.
They firmly believe this will significantly enhance their trading conditions and reduce the risk of theft, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the market’s development and their desire to contribute to the local economy.
