Tension gripped parts of Ablekuma West after a major decongestion and security operation led to the demolition of several structures identified as suspected crime hideouts, with one person arrested during the exercise.
The operation, carried out by the Ablekuma West Municipal Assembly in collaboration with security personnel, targeted areas authorities say had become notorious hubs for criminal activity, drug abuse, and disorderly conduct.
Residents woke up to bulldozers, armed officers, and chaotic scenes as makeshift structures and unauthorized wooden kiosks were pulled down in a sweeping crackdown aimed at restoring order in the municipality.
Officials claimed the affected locations had repeatedly been linked to robbery, drug peddling, and other unlawful activities, prompting urgent intervention from the Assembly.
During the exercise, one suspect was reportedly arrested after allegedly attempting to obstruct the operation. Authorities say investigations are ongoing and more arrests could follow as security monitoring intensifies in the area.
Assembly officials defended the demolition, insisting the exercise was necessary to protect residents and reclaim public spaces that had allegedly been overtaken by criminal elements.
Some residents applauded the move, saying the affected areas had become increasingly dangerous at night. Others, however, expressed concern over the destruction of property and the impact on individuals who depended on the structures for daily survival.
The latest operation forms part of broader efforts by local authorities to clamp down on rising insecurity and sanitize urban communities across the capital.
