The National Sand and Stone Tipper Truck Drivers Association has accused some military personnel of unleashing violence on its members at Afienya, allegedly shooting several people and leaving some hospitalised and battling for their lives.
The association says the security personnel subjected truck operators and residents to excessive physical abuse, seized their mobile phones and impounded and damaged trucks in the course of the operations.
The allegations raise fresh concerns about the conduct of security personnel deployed to enforce restrictions on sand-winning activities, particularly as similar complaints have emerged from tipper truck operators in Ningo-Prampram.
According to the Greater Accra Regional Vice-Chairman of the association, Abdul-Moomen Mohammed, popularly known as Kowa Naso, their members who are engaged in lawful activities with the requisite licences have been denied access to their businesses which are covered by valid permits, despite clearance from the Ningo-Prampram District Assembly.
The association is demanding an investigation into the alleged shootings, assaults and destruction of property, while calling on President Mahama to ensure that legitimate operators are protected from what it considers excessive military action.
