On Friday, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations, Stan Dogbe, stated that the recent demolition of buildings along Accra’s La Beach was not a component of the government’s flood mitigation exercise. The operation, which saw the removal of the La Pleasure Beach and the Polo Beach Club adjacent to the Labadi Beach Hotel, was carried out by military personnel from the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces and supervised by the Ghana Police Service.
Dogbe clarified in a Facebook post that the action was distinct from the work of the flood mitigation task force operating at Kpeshie Lagoon, East Legon Boundary Road, Oyarifa and behind Mayfair Estates. He emphasised that the demolition was conducted under National Security’s direction at the hotel’s behest.
The hotel cited concerns that the permanently built structures on the beachfront were compromising safety, tranquillity and its reputation, thereby diminishing visitor experience and undermining the orderly management of a key tourism destination. Dogbe noted that the hotel would provide further details on its rationale for reclaiming the beachfront.
He also highlighted sanitation and security issues posed by unauthorised commercial activities along the beach, arguing that these operations create wider challenges for the area. Reviewing drone footage and videos, Dogbe questioned whether the hotel’s request was justified, specifically excluding the La Pleasure Beach from the discussion.
The demolition was overseen by National Security, with the Ghana Armed Forces and Police ensuring vendors and businesses vacated the premises. The operation aimed to address safety concerns and improve the beach’s overall environment.
