Residents of Yaakoko demonstrate against illegal sand winners

Residents of Yaakoko, a farming community in the Ayensuano district of the eastern region have declared war against illegal sand winners in the area.

Their decision comes on the back of the alleged killing of a 23 year old resident by the illegal sand contractors.

Charles Kwabena Amoako,a farmer was shot and killed some thugs believed to have been hired by some sand winners in his bid to protest their actions. Police from Nsawam were able to put seven suspects before court but they were all granted bail while investigation continue.

Yaakoko in recent times been troubled by illegal sand contractors due to the influx of Land guards hired by the sand contractors to unleash mayhem on whoever protested their actions.

To express their discontent with recent and past happenings,residents decided to stage a demonstration today during the funeral of the late young farmer.

Leader of the youth group that embarked on the protest,Sylvester Ganyo told journalists " all that we need is justice". He called on the president,chiefs and elders of the area to help curb the operations of sand winners.

The member of Parliament for the area,Samuel Ayepaye says he has raised the matter before parliament and a committee is expected soon to visit the area and acquaint themselves with the situation on the ground. The visibly worried MP suggested that the country turns to other alternative ways of putting up buildings other than the reliance on Sand for construction purposes. This he believes will curb the abuse of excavating sand indiscriminately.

" It is time that Ghana looks at technology because the population is growing and the land size remain same so if we continue to win sand at a point in time we will not even get sand for farming activities". He warned.