The 4 fishmongers who were arrested for the continuous sun-drying of fresh herrings, commonly known as “Keta School Boys,” on public pavements near the Korle Lagoon, have been released following the payment of a fine of GH¢200 each.
Cecilia Klottey, Regina Okinkoi, Okailey Norrah Ayi, and Mercy Tetteh were taken into custody and their merchandise confiscated on Friday, August 25, by Environmental Health Officers from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).
The AMA indicated that the actions of these women were subjecting the fish to vehicular smoke, potentially jeopardizing the fish’s quality and safety.
Florence Kuukyi, an Environmental Officer at the AMA, spoke with Citi News, revealing that the fishmongers were set free after satisfying the fine requirement and signing a commitment to refrain from drying fish on the pavement in the future.
“It is our responsibility to engage with the community to educate our clients about sanitation best practices, food hygiene, waste management, and other related matters. On August 25, a Friday, environmental officers, including myself, were conducting our routine house-to-house inspections and education. Upon returning, we noticed these women were drying herrings on the pavement. We apprehended them, collected and disposed of the fish. They paid a fine of GH¢200 each and agreed to sign an undertaking,” she explained.
The AMA has issued a stern caution to fishmongers, advising against the drying of fish on public pavements due to the associated health risks. The Assembly has also encouraged the public to promptly report any instances of such activities to the AMA.