Weija MCE denies wrongdoing in Panbros Salt Factory brouhaha

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Weija-Gbawe, Felix Odartey Lamptey, has denied any wrongdoing in the ongoing dispute involving the Panbros Salt Factory, following accusations by some residents and factory workers.

The aggrieved residents and workers have alleged that the MCE, together with a group of Chinese investors, is attempting to take over portions of the company’s land with the support of armed security personnel.

However, Lamptey has dismissed the allegations, explaining that the Municipal Assembly was merely facilitating discussions related to land use and potential investment opportunities within the area.

According to eyewitness accounts, the incident reportedly occurred earlier this week when a team believed to be working for the investors entered the disputed site with earth-moving equipment, claiming they had authorisation from the Assembly.

Officials of the Panbros Salt Industry have described the move as an act of land encroachment. They are calling for urgent intervention from the Lands Commission and relevant security agencies to prevent possible clashes.

The Panbros Salt Industry, one of Ghana’s oldest salt production companies, has been embroiled in a series of land-related disputes in recent years, largely due to rapid urban expansion around the Weija enclave.