Five injured as traders clash with taskforce during Kasoa decongestion exercise

Five people were injured in a clash in Kasoa's central business district. This incident involved three members of an assembly taskforce and two traders. The clash occurred during a decongestion exercise aimed at clearing unauthorized structures.

The goal was to remove makeshift stalls from pavements and roads. This would help ease pedestrian movement and reduce traffic congestion.

Nana Adeiso, the taskforce leader, explained that they had warned traders before. They had several meetings with the traders' association about vacating the area. Despite this, many traders refused to leave.

As the taskforce began dismantling structures, some traders threw stones. Three taskforce members were injured and are now receiving treatment at Kasoa Polyclinic.

Traders offered a different perspective on the situation. They claimed they received little notice about the operation. Some said the taskforce acted aggressively, leading them to defend themselves.

"They didn’t give us enough notice," one trader stated. "We only reacted in self-defense."

Nash Nyande, Municipal Director of NADMO, confirmed the injuries. He stated that affected taskforce members are being treated at Kasoa Polyclinic.

Despite these injuries, the assembly believes the exercise is necessary for public safety and order in the area.