Accra Gets Tough: Seized Goods Go to Prisons as Cleanup Begins

In a bold move to enforce city laws and promote social impact, Accra Mayor Michael Allotey has announced that all items confiscated during the ongoing decongestion exercise in the Central Business District will be donated to the Ghana Prisons Service, ending the long-standing practice of auctioning seized goods.

Speaking to journalists after the first day of the operation on Tuesday, May 20, Mayor Allotey said, “Tomorrow, you are not going to have it this way.

I will pack all these things for the prison when I come tomorrow. Today is your lucky day.” The remark was directed at street vendors who had set up shop illegally on walkways and roadsides.

The decongestion campaign, a joint effort between the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA), is aimed at reclaiming public spaces, enforcing sanitation and traffic regulations, and restoring order in the capital’s most congested areas.

Day 1 of the operation focused on several high-traffic zones including Kinbu Road to Railways, ECG Junction to the King Tackie Tawiah Statue, and Opera Square to Adabraka—all areas known for heavy street vending, unauthorized structures, and traffic delays.

Mayor Allotey emphasized that this was just the beginning of a sustained city-wide effort. “This exercise is not a nine-day wonder. We will be on the streets until we ensure that the roads are clear,” he declared.

The decision to donate seized items to the Prisons Service is being hailed as both a disciplinary and humanitarian approach. It sends a strong message to street vendors while also supporting an institution often in need of supplies.

The AMA has appealed to the public, especially street traders, to comply with the operation to avoid further conflict or loss of goods.

Residents and commuters have expressed mixed reactions, with some praising the AMA’s effort to restore order and others calling for more dialogue with affected vendors.

As the operation continues, city authorities have promised regular updates and maintained that the ultimate goal is a cleaner, safer, and more organized Accra.