Over 900 safety components stolen from Obetsebi Lamptey interchange

Barely 10 months after its inauguration, the Obetsebi Lamptey Interchange in Accra has been vandalised, with thieves making away with nearly 1,000 key metal safety components.

According to project officials, a total of 964 parts have been stolen, including spacer blocks, U-connectors, washer plates, hand railings, and reflectors—raising serious safety concerns for both motorists and pedestrians.

Resident Engineer Owusu Sekyere Antwi described the theft as a “national security issue”.

“The quantity stolen is huge. Most of these components are not available locally and would have to be imported for replacement,” he told the Daily Graphic.

Costly and Dangerous

The stolen components were imported in bulk, making it difficult for officials to place an immediate cost on the losses. Engineers say the parts are critical to crash barriers, railings, and lighting, and their absence leaves drivers exposed to severe risk—especially at night, when visibility is already poor.

At the site, large sections of railings were left hanging after spacer blocks and bolts were removed. Metal covers for underground cable splice boxes powering streetlights were also stolen.

Mr. Antwi noted that thieves appeared to have carried out the crime over several days, breaking welds on bolts and gradually dismantling sections of the interchange.

Project Status

About 96% of the project is complete, with final works such as road markings, traffic lights, and a new pedestrian bridge still outstanding. Officials say the contractor, who remains on site, may help replace the stolen components if additional funds are released.

Security Response

Police have confirmed at least one arrest. ASP Famous Kudah, Deputy Commander of the Kaneshie District Police Command, said suspect Yaw Asare was caught with a stolen component and has already been prosecuted by the Dansoman Court.

Mr. Antwi urged a community-wide response to protect public infrastructure, calling for surprise raids on scrap depots where stolen bridge and road parts may be sold.

“Once such construction components are found anywhere, depot operators should be held responsible,” he stressed.

Source: graphic.com.gh