The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly has suspended all burials at the Osu Cemetery with immediate effect, following reports of illegal and unethical burial practices.

The decision was announced by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Alfred Allotey Gaisie, at a press conference on Thursday, February 5. The action comes in response to verified complaints of unlawful exhumations, desecration of human remains, and the unauthorised sale of burial spaces.

“We have taken notice of the disturbing reports and magnified complaints regarding the illegal and unethical activities and procedures, including the unlawful excavation of graves, desecration of human remains and the unauthorised sale of burial sites to grieving and unsuspecting families,” Mr. Gaisie stated.

“All burials at Osu Cemetery are hereby put on hold. They will be put on hold for the next two months.”

According to Mr. Gaisie, the two-month suspension will allow authorities to audit burial permits, verify documentation and plots, and address management gaps at the cemetery.

“This process will help identify burial damages, establish a track of families and prevent future abuses, security issues and financial losses. This measure is essential to allow for comprehensive assessment, audits and restructuring of the management of the cemetery,” he explained.

The MCE condemned the alleged acts, describing them as criminal and offensive to Ghanaian cultural values and respect for the dead.

“The assembly condemns these acts in the strongest sense. Such conduct is not only criminal but deeply offensive to our cultural values, moral conscience and respect for the dead,” he said.

He further announced the deployment of additional security personnel to monitor the cemetery and prevent further unauthorised activities.

“As a responsible citizen, I hereby direct the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit to intensify its contribution by sensitising the management of Osu Cemetery and safeguarding the dignity of those laid to rest there. These measures are intended to prevent further illegal access, grave desecration and unauthorised activities within the cemetery premises,” Mr. Gaisie added.

He also noted that while the suspension applies to the general public, burials for indigenes of the area will be permitted under strictly controlled procedures.

The Municipal Assembly has emphasised that the suspension is a temporary measure to ensure that proper auditing, restructuring, and management systems are put in place to safeguard the cemetery and restore public confidence.