The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is set to intensify its crackdown on illegal developments today, July 22, 2025, as it resumes the demolition of unauthorized structures built on protected Ramsar sites in Sakumono, Klagon, and Tema.
The renewed exercise comes on the heels of destructive flooding in the Tema West Municipality that left a trail of damaged property and displaced families. Officials have squarely blamed the extent of the devastation on the rampant encroachment of wetlands, especially in areas designated as protected zones.
According to authorities, several buildings were irresponsibly erected along waterways within the Sakumono Ramsar site, a designated ecological buffer critical to flood prevention. These developments have blocked natural drainage paths, worsening the impact of seasonal rains.
REGSEC, in collaboration with National Security and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), began demolishing the illegal structures earlier this year. The latest phase is aimed at accelerating the recovery of these fragile ecosystems while sending a clear warning to developers who continue to flout environmental laws.
“These Ramsar sites are not for sale, lease, or construction. They exist to protect lives—not enrich land speculators,” an official close to the operation said.
The demolished buildings were sited squarely within flood-prone wetland zones, areas that scientists and planners insist must remain untouched to act as natural buffers during periods of heavy rain.
Regional Minister Linda Ocloo is expected to personally lead a team of security personnel this morning to oversee the continuation of the demolitions, reaffirming the government’s resolve to restore the integrity of the Ramsar zones and avert future tragedies.
Today’s operation marks another bold step in reclaiming vital ecological space and underscores the region’s zero-tolerance approach to unlawful development.
