By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) has suspended all burials at the Osu Cemetery with immediate effect following confirmed reports of illegal exhumations, desecration of human remains, and the unauthorised sale of burial plots.
The decision was announced by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Alfred Ato Allotey-Gaisie, through a statement read to the media on Thursday, February 5, by the Mayor of Korle Klottey, Michael Kpakpo Allotey.
Describing the reported acts as criminal and unethical, Mr. Allotey-Gaisie said the activities offend Ghanaian cultural values and show a profound lack of respect for the dead.
According to the Assembly, verified complaints reveal that some individuals unlawfully exhumed graves, tampered with human remains, and sold burial spaces at the cemetery to unsuspecting and grieving families without authorisation.
“We have taken notice of disturbing reports and numerous complaints regarding illegal and unethical activities, including unlawful excavation of graves, desecration of human remains, and the unauthorised sale of burial sites to grieving and unsuspecting families,” the statement said.
“All burials at the Osu Cemetery are hereby put on hold for the next two months,” Mr. Allotey-Gaisie announced.
He explained that the suspension would allow the Assembly to carry out a comprehensive assessment, audit, and restructuring of the cemetery’s management system. The exercise is expected to help identify burial damages, trace affected families, address security lapses, and prevent future abuses and financial losses.
The MCE further disclosed that a full audit of all burial permits issued at the cemetery will be conducted. This will include verification of burial plots, documentation, and authorisation processes to uncover irregularities and strengthen oversight.
To prevent further illegal activity, KoKMA has announced enhanced security and monitoring measures at the cemetery, including the deployment of additional personnel and stricter on-site supervision to stop unauthorised access.
“As Municipal Chief Executive, I have directed the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit to intensify its oversight and sanitise the management of the Osu Cemetery, ensuring the dignity of those laid to rest is fully protected,” Mr. Allotey-Gaisie stated.
The Assembly has urged families with relatives buried at the Osu Cemetery to visit the site and report any concerns through the appropriate municipal channels.
Mr. Allotey-Gaisie assured the public that updates would be provided as investigations and audits continue, reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to transparency, dignity, and respect for cultural and human values in the management of public spaces.
