The Environmental Sanitation Taskforce of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has arrested 10 persons for open defecation in some public places within the metropolis.

The arrest, which took place on Thursday, March 10, forms part of the Assembly’s effort to reduce the phenomenon to ensure a clean and hygienic environment for its people.

Section 14 of the STMA bye-law on solid and liquid waste management, states that “No person shall defecate or urinate in any public or open place other than in an approved toilet facility.”

The arrested individuals include; David Yeboah, Francis Eti, Evans Mensah, Daniel Ofori and Abubakar Ibrahim.

The rest are; David Salifu, Kwamena Inkoom, Thomas Abban, Yaw Kumasi and Mohammed Aliu.

They were arrested within the Tanokrom, Ngyeresia and Kokompe areas.

Each culprit was fined a spot fee of GH¢200 after which they were strongly cautioned to refrain from such practices or risk prosecution next time.

The Metro Environmental Health Officer, Abdul Karim Huduhas, said the task force will continue to arrest and fine or prosecute persons who engage in similar acts.

“The Assembly’s commitment to eradicate open defecation is still in force; hence, the task force will continue to arrest and fine any persons caught openly defecating,” he stressed.