Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, led a task force to remove explosive items from the Kejetia City Market.

Following a directive in a press release issued by the Public Relations Unit of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), the Mayor and team, comprising personnel from the fire service, NADMO, military, and security operatives, visited the market on Monday, March 2.

They visited shops, searched, and seized chemicals and items believed to be hazardous in nature.

In recent times, the market has recorded 10 attempted fires, with expert reports suggesting eight were attributed to hazardous materials.

Addressing the market community at the market information centre, the Mayor directed dealers in explosive items to relocate to the Racecourse Market, deemed suitable by the KMA.

He advised dealers to voluntarily report to the fire station for registration, enabling the Assembly to develop a befitting market structure at the Racecourse Market.

The Mayor also warned traders selling around transformers and fire holes to relocate immediately and those selling on walkways to do so by Thursday, March 5.

Metro Fire Commander, DO2 Mr. Thomas Asiedu, stated the decision to invade the market aimed to safeguard lives, properties, and protect the market from disasters, advising traders to avoid using gas cookers, heaters, and other fire-prone equipment.

Later, the Mayor and team visited Daaban and Danyame to stop developers building without authorization from the Assembly.

BY Thomas Awuah Asem