At least 33 suspects have been arrested for their alleged involvement in recent market fires in the Ashanti regional capital, Kumasi.
Police sources say the suspects were part of a gang believed to have sparked the fire at the Asafo Market enclave two nights ago.
The police source told our correspondent that the suspects were being screened as part of investigations.
The latest development follows claims by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly Chief Executive, Osei Assibey Antwi of suspected arson attacks in popular markets in Kumasi.
A Regional Security Council meeting is expected to be held in the coming days to bring a lasting solution to the menace.
Background
Four infernos have been recorded in the second largest city of Ghana within the past 72 hours at the Kumasi Central Market, Asafo Market and the Calvary Charismatic Centre.
Over 200 shops were burnt and properties running into hundreds of thousands of Ghana cedis have been lost.
Speaking to the media after inspecting the fire scenes, Mr. Antwi said the security agencies will be put on alert to investigate the various incidents.
The Kumasi Mayor said it could be an attempt to sabotage the ruling government.
“Now I think I have to be very blunt. It is not just an accident that we are witnessing. But now looking at the occurrences of it, everything is clear that it is an arson. From here I am going to report to the Ashanti Regional Minister to quickly deploy more men to various market centers”, he said.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has been assessing the situation. The organization says it would officially give details after it concludes its investigations.
Source: Daily Mail GH
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