Unknown group locks HR Director’s office at KATH and demands his removal

The Human Resource Director’s office at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi was forcibly locked with chains and padlocks by unknown individuals on Tuesday, causing panic and disrupting administrative operations. The group, claiming to be National Security operatives, demanded the immediate removal of the HR Manager, Anthony Kofi Oduro.

According to eyewitnesses, the men stormed the Human Resource Unit during working hours, ordered the director to stop work, and locked up his office. When Mr. Oduro returned from a meeting, he found his office sealed and protest placards placed at the entrance.

The messages on the placards read: “Workers are working under a toxic environment,” “Withdraw your service now or face our wrath,” “#TonyMustGo,” and “#KATHDeservesBetter.”

One hospital staff member, speaking anonymously, said the experience was “intimidating and deeply worrying,” especially since the group presented themselves as security personnel. The situation left many workers stranded, unsure of what would happen next, and raised serious concerns about workplace safety.

The hospital’s internal security, along with the police and regional security officers, later removed the locks to allow access to the office.

In response, the Ashanti Regional Security Coordinator’s office has denied any connection to the incident. Deputy Coordinator Alhaji Nje Abdallah Umar told Citi News, “These individuals were not acting on behalf of our office or with our sanction.” He further added, “We are taking this matter seriously and are working with the Ghana Police Service to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.”

He also clarified, “We don’t have any idea about it. Captain Jabari, Regional Security Coordinator says we have not sanctioned anyone to come and do what just happened.”

On the HR Director’s reaction, he said, “The HR wasn’t around when they came to lock up the office, so he has been shocked, and I have calmed him down.” He also mentioned that it was too early to tell if the incident was related to internal hospital issues.

Investigations are ongoing to determine the identity of the perpetrators and the motive behind the dramatic act.