The Ashanti Regional Police Command has ordered Suame aritisans to reopen shops belonging to Nigerian traders.

The artisans accused the Nigerian traders of violating the country’s laws against retail trading by foreign nationals.

The shops were closed by some artisans believed to be members of the Suame Spare Parts Dealers Association who say the Nigerian traders were competing with them in the retail market.

Police personnel in the Ashanti regional capital Kumasi, who were detailed to arrest some artisans at the Suame magazine were chased away by the angry artisans.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ashanti Regional Police Command, Mohammed Tanko, said instead of using of force to compel the aggrieved Suame artisans to reopen the shops, dialogue with them has been more successful.

He said although the action of the members of Suame Spare Parts Dealers Association was unlawful, no arrests were made.

“We pointed out to them that their action was unlawful and they have to go back to peacefully open the shops…and if they comply there won’t be any need to prosecute them”, said ASP Tanko.

He added that the Police Regional Command is investigating allegations that the Nigerian traders have breached the country’s retail laws.

According to him, the report on the investigation will ascertain what happens subsequently.