Electrochem Ghana Limited has reported a violent attack on its salt warehouse in Ada by armed assailants, resulting in significant financial loss, operational disruption, and injuries to staff members.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 9, 2024, the Chief Executive Officer of Electrochem Ghana, Abdul Razak Adam, revealed that the attack occurred around 3:00 a.m. and was allegedly led by a known activist of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The assailants, armed with cutlasses and firearms, reportedly claimed to have been sent from the NDC Headquarters in Accra.
“This criminal act has caused considerable financial loss and profound disruption to our daily operations. More alarmingly, some of our staff members sustained injuries during the chaos, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures and accountability,” the statement read.
The company reported that the attackers wreaked havoc on the premises, looting essential office supplies and a significant quantity of salt from the warehouse.
Electrochem Ghana, a major employer in the area, with approximately 1,800 permanent workers and over 3,000 casual workers during the salt mining season, described the incident as part of a disturbing trend of recurring security breaches.
Threats to Business Operations and Investment
Electrochem Ghana warned that the ongoing attacks threaten not only the safety of its employees but also the stability of its operations, which are critical to the local and national economy.
The company expressed concerns over the adverse impact on the investment climate in the region, stating that such lawlessness could deter future investments vital to the company’s growth and the broader Ghanaian economy.
“These recurring security breaches endanger our personnel, jeopardize our operational stability, and threaten the trust we have cultivated with local and international investors who have committed substantial resources to our endeavors,” the statement added.
Electrochem Ghana highlighted its commitment to community development, including the establishment of community pans, an out-grower scheme, and commercial pans that provide sustainable income sources for residents.
The company also pointed to its investments in education, clean water infrastructure, and micro-loan programs for women entrepreneurs.
Call for Action
The company called on the government to take decisive action to address the situation, urging security agencies to apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
It emphasized the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable to deter future attacks.
“We call for public condemnation of these violent acts and demand an immediate investigation into this incident. The time for action is now, as the safety of our workforce and the stability of our operations hang in the balance,” the statement concluded.
Electrochem Ghana expressed its hope that swift action by the authorities would restore safety and stability to its operations, ensuring the protection of its workforce and the continued development of the local economy.
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