Traders who were operating along the middle lane of the Kejetia Market in Kumasi are seeking a refund of money allegedly collected by Prince Nyarko, Operations Manager of the Kumasi City Markets Limited.

The aggrieved traders claim they were charged various sums ranging from GH¢3,000 to GH¢6,000 to secure trading spaces along the middle lane inside the market.

About 400 traders were evicted from the space after the amount had been taken. Their eviction was on grounds that they were occupying emergency access routes not opened for trading activities.

The leader of the affected traders, Isaac Oppong, alleged that the monies were collected on the instructions of the Operations Manager, Prince Ofori.

Another leader of the group, Akwasi Aning, also expressed frustration over the situation, stressing that the financial burden on the traders goes beyond the initial payments.

The traders insist that if management will no longer allow them to trade at the middle lane, their monies must be refunded immediately.

Prince Nyarko declined to comment on the issue.

Meanwhile, market management has denied allegations that any money was collected from the traders, further deepening the dispute.

The situation remains tense as the traders await a resolution from the authorities.