The Ashanti Regional branch of the Scrap Dealers Association has announced plans to introduce official identification cards for its members as part of efforts to curb rising cases of false accusations and violent attacks against scrap dealers.
The Regional President of the association, Abdulai Jagala, disclosed the initiative in an interview with the media, expressing deep concern over the increasing hostility faced by members while carrying out their daily activities.
According to him, many scrap dealers have become victims of mob attacks due to widespread public perception that links their activities to theft and other criminal behaviour. He emphasized that such assumptions are often unfounded and have led to the harassment, injury, and in some cases, the death of innocent individuals within the trade.
“Over the years, genuine scrap dealers have suffered several attacks, with some members killed and others injured. To prevent these unfortunate incidents, we are introducing ID cards to distinguish our members from impostors,” he stated.
Mr. Jagala explained that the proposed identification system will make it easier for community members and security agencies to identify registered scrap dealers, thereby reducing suspicion and preventing unnecessary confrontations. He added that the move forms part of broader efforts by the association to sanitize the industry and restore public confidence in their operations.
He made reference to a recent incident at Ntensere, where some scrap dealers were attacked by residents who suspected them of engaging in criminal activities. He described the incident as unfortunate and avoidable, noting that the presence of a proper identification system could have helped avert the violence.
The Regional President further expressed disappointment over the lack of arrests following the mob action, describing the situation as unjust and worrying. He called on law enforcement agencies to take swift action to ensure that perpetrators of such attacks are brought to justice and to prevent future occurrences.
Mr. Jagala reiterated the association’s commitment to promoting lawful operations within the scrap dealing business, stressing that the introduction of ID cards will be a significant step toward protecting members, eliminating impostors, and fostering a safer working environment across the Ashanti Region.
