The 2021 Greater Accra Regional Best Farmer, Kadri Osumanu, is crying out for justice after armed sand winners allegedly invaded and destroyed his farms at Agbozo-Oboum in the Ga South Municipality, causing massive damage estimated at over GH¢703,855.20.
According to Osumanu, the destruction affected 40.566 acres of farmland, including 26.716 acres of maize, 5 acres of cassava, 4 acres of okro, and 3.1 acres of ademe (spinach). The crops, which were nearing harvest, were flattened by excavators and vehicles used by the suspected sand winners.
The farmer, who won the regional Best Farmer award in 2021 for his outstanding contribution to food production, described the incident as “heartbreaking and devastating,” adding that the attack has destroyed his years of hard work and investment.
“Everything I have laboured for is gone. These armed men came with guns and machines, destroying all my crops without remorse,” he lamented.
11 Suspects in Court
Following the incident, 11 suspects have been arraigned before the Weija Circuit Court in connection with the case. However, Osumanu fears that some influential individuals are attempting to manipulate the system to get the matter dropped.
“Impeccable media investigations” suggest that some of the accused persons are allegedly trying to use their connections to influence senior police officials to halt the prosecution.
In an emotional appeal, Mr. Osumanu called on President John Dramani Mahama and Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno to intervene to ensure that justice is served.
“I am appealing to the President and the IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno to ensure that the law takes its course. I have lost everything, and all I ask for is justice,” he said.
Residents of Agbozo-Oboum have expressed concern over the growing activities of illegal sand winning in the area, which they say is not only destroying farmlands but also threatening livelihoods and the environment.
