The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for La Nkwantanang–Madina, Ibrahim Fuseini Faila, has announced that the developer of the collapsed building in Adenta will be arrested for allegedly disregarding a stop-work order issued by the Assembly.
Addressing the media, the MCE explained that the owner had been granted approval for a single-storey structure but continued construction despite directives to halt the project. “I called the engineer, and he confirmed that the owner had already been stopped from building beyond the approved single-storey. The question is, on what authority was he adding another floor?” he remarked.
Mr. Faila alleged that the developer ignored the directive and found ways to continue the project. “He refused to listen. Somehow, he managed to proceed with the construction. We are now pursuing him, and he will be arrested. We will not spare him. The law must bite,” he declared. The MCE revealed that the Assembly had warned the owner about a year ago to cease construction, but the order was allegedly disregarded.
He noted that while some flooding incidents in parts of Tema and other low-lying areas may be attributed to natural causes, the collapse of the Adenta building could have been avoided through strict adherence to planning regulations and proper supervision. The MCE further indicated that the owner would be surcharged for all costs incurred in clearing the debris from the collapsed structure.
“It is the owner’s negligence that has caused this situation. We will ensure he bears the cost of clearing the debris and any other expenses incurred by the Assembly,” he added. He said the Assembly has the owner’s contact details and is collaborating with the police to have him arrested and prosecuted.
Source: Deborah Quarcoo
