The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, has expressed concern about illegal structures built in front of fire hydrants, following a fire at a commercial part of Kantamanto earlier today.

According to him, they are in the process of demolishing structures built in true way of fire hydrants, and will ensure that those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.

Speaking to reporters at the scene of a fire outbreak in Kantamanto on October 21 where they could be seen bringing down such a structure, the Mayor noted that it restricts the work of fire fighters.

“In assuming office I never knew there was a water hydrant here. I just found out today,” he lamented.

He said immediate steps were being taken to demolish such structures and hold those responsible accountable.

“I’m demolishing, and I’m going to make sure I charge that person to court and prosecute the person. You can’t do this.”

Michael Kpakpo Allotey urged others to report such cases to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), noting that citizen vigilance was critical to preventing tragedies.

“AMA cannot see everything. Report to us, tell us this is the problem that is happening here. This is wrong.”

“We cannot lose lives before something must happen,” he stressed.

He emphasized his commitment to enforcing the law, assuring that offenders would face prosecution.

“I’m taking action now. Demolishing all the structures. If I finish, I’m going to take the people on, make sure I prosecute them in the court and let them fix their actions.”

The Accra Mayor gave his word that the people responsible for putting up structures

“I’ll be happy if you come to our sanitation courts and find out. I will arrest these people,” he assured.