Five people have been arrested and arraigned before the James Town District Court for engaging in open defecation at the Osu Cemetery, in what authorities describe as a renewed crackdown on insanitary practices in public spaces.
The arrests were carried out by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit of the Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly, KoKMA, as part of efforts to restore cleanliness and protect public health within the municipality. Officials say cemeteries and other sensitive public areas are increasingly being monitored to curb acts that pose health risks and undermine the dignity of such spaces.
At the court hearing, two of the accused persons pleaded guilty and were each fined GH¢1,200. They are expected to pay the fines or face further sanctions as prescribed by law.
Two other accused persons initially pleaded guilty with explanation, but their pleas were later changed to not guilty. The court granted them bail in the sum of GH¢3,000 each with two sureties. They are to reappear before the court on March 30, 2026.
The fifth accused person pleaded not guilty and was also granted bail of GH¢3,000 with two sureties, and is expected to return to court on the same date.
Environmental health officers say the enforcement action forms part of a broader campaign to address persistent sanitation challenges in the area. Residents have been reminded to use designated sanitation facilities at all times and to help maintain cleanliness in their communities.
The Assembly has warned that further violations will attract legal consequences as it steps up efforts to safeguard public health and preserve public spaces.
