REGSEC resumes demolition of illegal buildings on Sakumo Ramsar site

By Rebecca Okine

The Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC), led by Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, resumed the demolition of unauthorized structures on protected Ramsar sites located in Sakumono, Klagon, and parts of Tema.

The renewed operation follows recent flooding in sections of the Tema West Municipality, which caused significant damage to property.

Authorities have partly blamed the flooding on unlawful encroachments on the Sakumo Ramsar site, where several buildings have been constructed on natural watercourses and wetlands in violation of environmental protection regulations.

The demolition exercise, conducted in collaboration with National Security and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), is aimed at restoring the integrity of the Ramsar site and reducing flood risks in the region.

The affected buildings are located within designated wetland zones that serve as natural buffers and flood control systems.

This operation follows an earlier attempt on May 27, 2025, which was temporarily halted due to logistical challenges.

At the time, officials said the machinery used was too light to demolish high-rise structures built with reinforced concrete. In addition, fuel shortages delayed further progress.

With improved logistical support, REGSEC has resumed the exercise as part of broader efforts to protect environmentally sensitive areas and prevent future disasters linked to unregulated development on wetlands.