TIG Post

Tag: Circle

  • Squatters defy eviction at Neoplan bus stop

    Squatters defy eviction at Neoplan bus stop

    Recalcitrant squatters and traders who were evicted from the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange Neoplan Bus Stop in Accra on Wednesday, May 21, have returned to their spots.

    On Wednesday, May 21, Circle Neoplan was freed from illegal structures as part of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s (AMA) decongestion exercise.

    Environmental Health Officer in charge of operations at Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), Mr Joseph Asitanga, confirmed this while speaking to media on Thursday, May 22 – Day 3 of the decongestion exercise.

    He said, “So as we enforced the laws yesterday, this morning we got wind of that; they are back again, so we had to come. When we got here, they had resurfaced with different developments with their items, so we had to come again and clean and tidy up the place.”

    “As part of the decongestion exercise, wherever we move to, we follow up to see whether whatever we did the previous day has been complied with. It is a bylaw enforcement; bus stops are not meant for activity. It is meant for only passengers to transit, and it is difficult getting people out here,” Mr Joseph Asitanga added.

    To avert a possible return of the traders after being removed for a second time, three permanent guards will be deployed to the Neoplan Bus Stop to prevent squatters from thronging the street.

    “We are going to ensure that this place is as clean as it is now. Nobody will sell here; this is a bus stop. We are not demolishing anything here, but we are clearing the bus stop free of trading,” Mr Asitanga reiterated.

    The 3-day decongestion exercise launched on Tuesday, May 20, which sought to clear traders, squatters from the pavements and streets in the country’s capital, Accra came to an end on May 22.

    The first phase focused on areas around the AMA Head Office, including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka.Today, Wednesday, May 21, the AMA extended the operation to Circle Neoplan.

    Prior to the launch of the decongestion exercise, the Accra mayor engaged traders, urging them to leave the streets voluntarily.

    Meanwhile, the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has assured that the operation will persist until the roads are fully cleared of vendors occupying the pavements.

    “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder; we are on the street till we make sure that the roads are clear. We are not done. For the next hour, we are going back to the street. From here we are going to Circle, and if there is more strength, we will go to Kaneshie. Then we continue tomorrow,” the mayor stated.

    Despite concerns by some of the traders who sought to counter the decongestion exercise, a section of the traders lauded the Accra Mayor and the AMA task force for undertaking the decongestion exercise in the Central Business District.

    However, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has cautioned the traders against returning to the streets. Speaking to the media after the exercise, she noted that culprits will pay a fine within the range of GHC1,500 and GHC2,000.

    “We are going to reactivate our task force so that they will be working 24 hours a day. They are going to draw red lines in between the roads so that when you cross the line. There’s a fee that you have to pay, GHC1,500, with a maximum of GHC2,000. So that next time, you wouldn’t cross the line,” she said.

    Amid the concerns raised by affected traders, the Greater Accra Market Association (GAMA) has declared strong support for the Accra Metropolitan Assembly’s ongoing decongestion campaign in the Central Business District (CBD).

    Under Ghana’s Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), specific provisions prohibit trading activities that obstruct pedestrian and vehicular movement.

    These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and free flow of traffic on public roads and pavements.

  • I live in constant terror – Ghanaian man ‘lured’ into Russia-Ukraine war

    I live in constant terror – Ghanaian man ‘lured’ into Russia-Ukraine war

    A Ghanaian man, one of 14 individuals reportedly forced into Russia’s war with Ukraine, fears for his life as he recalls the terrifying experience of being trapped on the frontlines.

    Seeking better opportunities, these men found themselves caught in a conflict they neither understood nor wanted to be part of.

    Michael, a 33-year-old phone vendor from Accra’s busy Kwame Nkrumah Circle (a name he uses for safety), never imagined he would end up in the war.

    In June 2024, frustrated with his financial struggles, he saw an opportunity he thought could change his life. Instead, it led him straight into the chaos of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    “I borrowed GH¢20,000 from family members and added it to my savings to pay for the visa and flight,” he said.

    Another victim, Joseph (not his real name, also trapped on the frontlines in Donetsk), added, “We paid the money to our agent because we trusted him. He’s my nephew.”

    A group of 14 men, reportedly recruited by a man named Abraham Boakye, was promised well-paying security and agricultural jobs in Russia. Motivated by the opportunity, they made their way through Togo and arrived in Russia on August 6, 2024. However, their dreams were quickly shattered when they reached Kostroma, located northeast of Moscow.

    Upon arrival, they were told that instead of starting the promised jobs, they would first undergo military training. Shortly after, a Russian team took charge of them and presented a contract written entirely in Russian, a language none of them understood. Despite the language barrier, the men signed the contract, and their passports were confiscated.

    After 21 days of training, they were sent to the Donetsk oblast in Ukraine, which is under Russian control, marking the beginning of their terrifying experience.

    Three men, who spoke with Media General’s Godwin Asidiba, recounted their forced involvement in Russia’s war effort, detailing their captivity and perilous duties.

    They were assigned to transport the bodies of dead soldiers and deliver bombs to the frontlines. Each day, they endured a grueling three-hour trek to the front, haunted by constant fear and despair.

    As his health worsened, one of the men stationed near the frontlines of the conflict shared, “I can’t stand without assistance.” To keep me going, they give me drug injections. “I just want to go home,” he told the reporter over the phone.

    The journey has left more than just physical scars. Many members of their group are either dead, missing, or living with permanent injuries.

    Meanwhile, their families back in Ghana are filled with worry, desperately reaching out to authorities for assistance, but receiving no meaningful response.

    In hopes of securing a better future, one of the men, Adjei (not his real name), left his wife and two children behind in Ghana. After paying an initial sum of 400,000 rubles, he continued to send money back home as promised.

    To shield their families from the grim truth, his colleagues – Michael and Joseph (not their real names) – also sent money, making it appear as though everything was fine.

    However, the men are exhausted and their families are equally disheartened. Despite multiple reports to the Ghana Police Headquarters, no action has been taken, according to a report by 3news.com.

    Gideon Sarfo, Michael’s nephew, expressed his frustration “We’ve been waiting for answers, but all we get are closed doors and broken promises. My uncle’s life is at stake, and no one seems to care.”

    Michael’s mother, grappling with her own health issues, is devastated and inconsolable.

    “She’s had a stroke and asks about him every day. If she learns the truth, it might kill her,” a family member disclosed.

    A few of the men have managed to flee, putting their lives in danger as they make their way back to Ghana. One escapee recounted the perilous journey, highlighting the constant threat of Russian forces as he navigated through treacherous terrain.

    “We witnessed our friends’ deaths up close. We did not wish to suffer the same fate,” one person said, adding that, “We battled our way out.”

    The report, however, stated that upon their arrival in Ghana, the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) apprehended the escapees for questioning.

    Although they were eventually released, their identification documents were confiscated, and they continue to live in hiding, fearing further repercussions.

    “Because they thought I might be working with the National Intelligence Bureau, the men in Kumasi declined to meet when I asked them to do an interview. Their psychosis highlights the severe trauma they experienced.

    “Attempts to contact the Ghanaian Embassy in Russia via email and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs by visiting their office in Accra have not been answered. According to sources, both organisations are aware of the problem but have done nothing about it,” the journalist who uncovered this story said.

    Meanwhile, efforts to locate the alleged recruiter, Abraham Boakye, have been unsuccessful. Despite claims that the case is under investigation, his office in Dome, Accra, remains locked.

    The men’s suffering worsened when Boakye allegedly misappropriated 130,000 rubles from each of their initial 400,000 ruble salaries.

    What began as a pursuit of a better life has now become a desperate fight for survival. As their hopes for rescue fade with each passing day, their pain and uncertainty only intensify.

  • Over 200 wooden structures at Circle Odawna saved in fire outbreak

    Over 200 wooden structures at Circle Odawna saved in fire outbreak

    A fire incident on Thursday morning led to the destruction of about 15 wooden structures used for domestic and commercial purposes at Circle Odawna in Accra.

    Engaging the media, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) noted that its officers managed to salvage more than 200 wooden structures.

    Assistant Division Officer (ADO1) Alex King Nartey from the Public Affairs Department of the GNFS said, “Fortunately, our team at Circle, just a few minutes away from the scene got there in good time in about 5 minutes.”

    “The unfortunate thing was that because the fire was just at the edge of the Odawna gutter, it was difficult for them to get access to the place. The fire tender couldn’t get to the scene.”

    The team parked at an adjourning warehouse and fixed their waterlines to get to the scene to douse the flame. He noted that the fire was fast spreading and the team’s focus was to mitigate the damage caused and protect buildings close by.

    “We were able to salvage over 200 wooden structures and the adjourning warehouses,” Alex King Nartey said.

    The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Victims are in a devastating state as they assess the extent of the damage caused.

  • I’m grateful for my unique physical form – Adwoa Smart

    I’m grateful for my unique physical form – Adwoa Smart

    Veteran Ghanaian actress Belinda Naa Ode Oku, popularly known as Adwoa Smart, recently expressed her deep appreciation for her physical uniqueness, attributing it to her success.

    In an interview with Frema Adunyame, Adwoa Smart reflected on her stature, stating that her distinctive appearance has been pivotal in shaping her career.

    The actress, famous for her role in the iconic TV series “Obra,” shared that her life’s path might have been different without her unique form.

    “I am very happy with the way God created me…Maybe if He hadn’t created me like this, I wouldn’t be a superstar.” She quipped

    Recalling her earlier years as a seller at Circle, she explained how her appearance drew customers, leading other vendors to request her presence to boost their own sales.

    “I sell…people buy my goods just because of my unique appearance…It got to a point other sellers were hiring me just to sit behind their goods so that my attention attracts people to buy from them”. She opined

    In her words of advice, Adwoa Smart urged people to embrace themselves as they are, affirming that everyone is created with a purpose.

  • We will not move until you give us a place to relocate – Roadside traders at circle to govt

    We will not move until you give us a place to relocate – Roadside traders at circle to govt

    The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) launched an operation to clear traders and individuals who have occupied bus stops and pavements around the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, popularly known as Circle.

    This effort, which began on Monday, June 3, 2024, mirrors a similar exercise conducted in 2017, prior to the construction of the €74 million interchange. At that time, traders were also removed by the AMA to ensure the area remained accessible for pedestrians.

    However, keeping the roads clear continues to be a challenge, as the evicted traders have returned to the streets.

    To understand the traders’ concerns and explore possible solutions to the congestion, The Independent Ghana engaged those affected by the AMA’s directive.

    These roadside traders emphasized that relocating from their current locations would significantly hinder their ability to earn a living, as their goods and services are in high demand within the area.

    They also pointed out that the government has not provided an alternative space where they can continue their trading and service activities.

    “If you are sacking us, you should give us an alternative. You cannot send us away like animals. If you want us to leave the streets because you care for us, you should direct us to a place you have available. Until then, efforts to sack us will not work,” Mr. Alhassan, who sells phone accessories by the roadside, passionately expressed.

    A phone vendor, Madam Janet, explained, “The taskforce agents were sacking us, but it will not work. Not all of us can do government work, so what we do by the roadside helps us. As it stands now, if your phone gets missing and you need a new one, you will come to me. So even if they sack us, when they go, we will return.”

    “I have five children, and this is the only place I have settled to take care of them. Some are in the university. Some of them have graduated, while others are in secondary school writing their exams. So, if the government can do something about it, they should work on it.”

    Despite the government’s efforts to alleviate street congestion, the issue persists. Finding a compromise, ensuring strict enforcement by security agencies, or providing a designated market space for these traders may be the most effective solutions moving forward.

    Watch video below:

  • Circle: Regional minister issues no-habitation, rebuilding directive at fire gutted area

    Circle: Regional minister issues no-habitation, rebuilding directive at fire gutted area

    Greater Accra Regional Minister, Titus Glover, has issued a stern warning against the rebuilding and reoccupation of the fire-ravaged sections of ECOMOG at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra.

    His statement follows a second fire outbreak in the area in two years, which occurred on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

    The blaze, which began around 5:00 PM, destroyed wooden structures near the railway line.

    During a site inspection of the affected area, the minister emphasised the need to prevent a third fire and ensure residents’ safety.

    Consequently, he has directed that no rebuilding or reoccupation of the site will be allowed.

    During a media engagement, Mr Glover stated that “its unfortunate they are living under these circumstances, but I have instructed that nobody should live here anymore, nobody and we mean it.

    As a regional minister, it is our duty to protect every life and property. We don’t want any third fire, and we don’t want anyone living here; they should prepare and leave.”

    He threatened apprehension and a lawsuit against anyone who made any attempt to defy these orders.

    “We will make sure we put men on the ground to make sure nobody leaves here. I mean my words and anybody who rebuilds will be arrested and taken to court,” he added.

    Meanwhile, the affected residents have called on the government to come to their aid.

  • Illegal connection may have caused fire outbreak at Circle – GNFS PRO

    Illegal connection may have caused fire outbreak at Circle – GNFS PRO

    The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has indicated that an illegal electrical connection might have sparked the fire at the Kwame Nkrumah Interchange, commonly referred to as ‘Circle,’ in Accra.

    This assertion was made by the Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, ADO Alex King Nartey, during an interview conducted just hours after the blaze was brought under control.

    “Illegal connections could be the cause,” he stated.

    The fire, which erupted on the evening of Wednesday, June 5, engulfed approximately 100 wooden structures, reportedly being used as brothels.

    Firefighters from the GNFS responded swiftly to the emergency, working tirelessly to extinguish the flames. Despite facing logistical challenges, ADO Alex Nartey assured the public that the situation was under control and that the firemen were doing their utmost to manage the incident effectively.

    The inferno has resulted in significant property damage, though no casualties have been reported at this time.

    Residents and business owners in the vicinity are anxiously awaiting the outcome of the investigation, hoping to understand what led to this devastating event.

  • Parts of Kwame Nkrumah Circle ECOMOG burnt to ashes

    Parts of Kwame Nkrumah Circle ECOMOG burnt to ashes

    Parts of the ECOMOG area at Kwame Nkrumah Circle were engulfed by a devastating fire on Wednesday evening, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

    The inferno, which started around 5:00 pm, ravaged several wooden structures near the railway line, displacing many residents and traders in the area.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the fire broke out suddenly, causing panic among residents, many of whom are squatters. Amateur footage circulating on social media captures the chaotic scenes, with residents fleeing after hearing minor explosions.

    One of the affected residents, speaking to JoyNews, recounted the harrowing experience and revealed that she lost about GHS3,100 in cash along with other valuable items.

    The blaze prompted immediate efforts from traders near the Odaw drain to salvage whatever they could from the encroaching flames. Despite their efforts, the damage was extensive, impacting the livelihoods of many in the community.

    The fire also led to a power outage in the surrounding areas, including Adabraka, New Town, and their environs, compounding the difficulties faced by residents and businesses alike. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to ascertain the origins of the blaze.

  • iPhone thieves forced to roll on the ground by military officer at Kwame Nkrumah Circle

    iPhone thieves forced to roll on the ground by military officer at Kwame Nkrumah Circle

    A noteworthy incident unfolded at Kwame Nkrumah Circle in Accra, where a military officer took decisive action against two individuals attempting to steal phones.

    A viral video circulating on the internet captured the moment when the officer disciplined the culprits, compelling them to lie flat on the ground.

    Demonstrating his authority, the military man directed the individuals to roll from one end to the other as a punishment for their attempted theft.

    The video has sparked widespread attention online, with many commending the officer for his vigilance in addressing crime.

  • This is what a woman got after taking GHC1000 to Circle

    This is what a woman got after taking GHC1000 to Circle

    A young woman in Ghana’s bustling Circle market intended to purchase an iPhone X with Ghs 1,000 but ended up with a nicely packaged bar of soap instead.

    This incident highlights the prevalence of scams and deceptive practices in the area, with many Ghanaians still unaware of such tricks.

    The woman’s initial excitement at the prospect of owning the latest iPhone quickly turned to disappointment and frustration when she discovered the switch. It is a cautionary tale for others to remain vigilant and skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.

    The Circle market, known for its variety of goods and often crowded with shoppers, is a hotspot for such scams. Both locals and tourists are advised to be wary of deals offered by street vendors and to verify the authenticity of products before making a purchase.

    https://twitter.com/Official_BigKay/status/1760572657014034681
  • Woman goes ‘crazy’ after losing laptop during gold transaction at Circle

    Woman goes ‘crazy’ after losing laptop during gold transaction at Circle

    A young lady, who was searching for gold, fell victim to a scam by an unscrupulous man at Circle.

    In a video shared by X user (@eddie_wrt), the distressed lady was seen running frantically in search of the man in a black shiny shirt, but without success.

    It is reported that the man made off with her Lenovo laptop and phone, which were placed in the bag he carried away.

    Some onlookers engaged with the distraught young lady, expressing disbelief that in this present age, someone could fall for such a prank, especially in Circle, an area known to be a hotspot for tricksters.

  • Video: Shops on Circle-Accra highway closed

    Video: Shops on Circle-Accra highway closed

    Shops within the environs of Circle-Accra highway have been closed for the final funeral rites of the late Ga Manye Naa Dedei Omaedru III.

    Also, provision shops at Dome Market have all been closed down following a directive from the Ga Traditional Council for the final funeral rite of the late Ga Manye Naa Dedei Omaedru III.

    Today, schools in the Greater Accra Region are expected not to be in session as directed by the Ghana Education Service (GES) in accordance with the Ga Traditional Council order.

    It is expected that all other markets and shops in the capital will be closed for today.

    The late Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III, passed away in December 2022.

    Originally, the final funeral rites were slated to occur from October 15 to 31, 2023. Initially, the Ga Traditional Council had instructed the closure of shops and offices in the Central Business District in the Greater Accra Region for three days, from October 26 to 29.

    Subsequently, the Council revised its directive, specifying that businesses would only be closed on Saturday, October 28, and not for the previously announced three days.

    Currently, the final funeral rites for the late Ga Manye Naa Dedei Omaedru III is proceeding as scheduled, as an interim injunction that had been placed on the ceremony has been reversed.

    Justice Patrick Baayeh, the High Court judge who had initially granted the injunction, acknowledged that it had been issued in error and subsequently lifted it.