NDC supporters intensify looting, attacks on public institutions

In the aftermath of the 2024 elections, Ghana has witnessed a surge in violent attacks, looting, and property destruction, with supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the center of these incidents.
Despite the arrest of 97 individuals in connection with these activities, the unrest continues to escalate, tarnishing the peaceful atmosphere that characterized the election period.

Confrontation at Ghana National Gas
A tense standoff unfolded yesterday at the Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNGCL) headquarters in Accra.
A group of individuals, suspected to be NDC supporters, attempted to storm the premises, resulting in a confrontation with security personnel.
The situation escalated quickly, prompting the deployment of soldiers and police officers to maintain order.
Security forces fired warning shots to disperse the crowd, averting further chaos.
The incident underscored the increasing tension in the capital as the country grapples with post-election unrest.

Military Intervenes at GPHA
Another high-profile incident was the attempted takeover of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) headquarters.
Early in the day, a group of unidentified men gathered at the entrance, intending to disrupt operations at one of Ghana’s key economic institutions.
The swift response of military personnel stationed at the site prevented the intruders from breaching the gates.
Video footage from the scene shows a tense standoff as soldiers formed a barrier and pushed back the crowd, ensuring that order was restored without significant disruptions.

EC Office in Damongo set ablaze
In Damongo, NDC supporters reportedly burned down a government building housing the Electoral Commission office. This act of arson has drawn widespread condemnation and represents one of the most egregious attacks on public institutions in the wake of the elections.

Attack on Communication Minister’s residence
One of the most high-profile incidents involved the office and residence of Communication Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful.
On Sunday, a group of about 15 men invaded her property, stealing cash, a Nissan Hardbody vehicle, a television set, mobile phones, and three new motorbikes.
The invaders also vandalized CCTV cameras and security infrastructure.
The police are investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about the safety of public officials during this period of unrest.

Forestry Commission offices ransacked in Bono Region
In Sunyani, the Bono Regional Forestry Commission office was attacked by armed individuals believed to be NDC supporters. The invaders seized two patrol vehicles, stole chainsaws, and removed batteries from an old vehicle.
The attackers attempted to take a heavy metal safe containing the commission’s funds but failed to lift it due to its weight.
They also forced open the gates of the Sunyani Forest Services Division and made away with motorbikes and lumber.

Tamale offices and warehouses ransacked
In Tamale, several government offices, including the Social Welfare, Community Development, and Veterinary Services departments, were ransacked.
Looters made off with furniture, official documents, fridges, ceiling fans, computers and other essential equipment.

Relief for droughts, floods victims looted
Warehouses containing relief supplies meant for communities affected by droughts and floods were also locked up by NDC supporters, delaying the distribution of much-needed aid.
The items, including fertilizer, rice, oil, and agrochemicals, remain confined in the warehouses.

Chereponi relief warehouses locked
In a related incident in Chereponi District, North East Region, NDC supporters locked several relief warehouses on December 9, further delaying assistance to vulnerable communities.

NADMO head office Looted
The NADMO head office in Accra was not spared in the wave of looting.
Electrical appliances and other items, including chest fridges, deep freezers, and sewing machines, were stolen.
These items were part of welfare schemes designed to assist persons with disabilities.
The looters broke into the offices on Sunday when the premises were unmanned, raising questions about the adequacy of security measures during this period.

Rising concerns and the way forward
The escalating violence has raised serious concerns about public safety and governance stability in Ghana.
While the police have made arrests, the persistent attacks highlight the need for stronger measures to restore order.
As the country grapples with these challenges, the government and security agencies must work swiftly to address the unrest and ensure that Ghana’s democratic institutions remain intact.