In a no-nonsense operation that underscores Ghana’s renewed commitment to environmental protection, the Tema Development Corporation Limited (TDC), with backing from National Security and the Ghana Armed Forces, has demolished scores of illegal structures at the Sakumono Ramsar site.
Led by TDC Managing Director Mr. Courage Nunekpeku, the operation marked a sweeping crackdown on rapid and unlawful development that has encroached on the ecologically sensitive wetland — a critical buffer zone for drainage and biodiversity in the Greater Accra Region.
“This isn’t just a demolition. It’s an act of preservation,” Mr. Nunekpeku declared. “We’re protecting lives and holding the line against chaos brought on by illegal developers who think they can outpace the law.”
With the rainy season fast approaching, officials say illegal construction on the Ramsar land threatens to choke natural waterways and worsen urban flooding.
TDC revealed that developers have resorted to stealth tactics, erecting buildings under the cover of night in a bid to dodge detection. Even traditional leaders, some of whom arrived during the exercise to plead for clemency, were implicated in allocating parts of the protected land to private developers.
But the TDC stood firm. “No compromises. No excuses. The ecological integrity of this land cannot be negotiated,” Mr. Nunekpeku said, vowing sustained enforcement.
The operation extended to Tema Community 10, where a well-known developer, identified only as “Big Sam,” was caught in the act of filling portions of the wetland to construct apartment blocks — despite repeated warnings.
“This is an outright defiance of state authority,” an incensed Nunekpeku told reporters. “We’re making it clear today: impunity ends here.”
An illegally erected fence wall was also razed during the operation, restoring access to the wetland and signaling zero tolerance going forward.
TDC says the collaboration with national security forces will continue in full force, with more operations planned to reclaim state lands and enforce land use regulations.
