UKUMEHAME (HawaiiNewsNow) - An effort to clear wildfire hazards in West Maui on Wednesday led to a dispute over homeless rights and ended with seven people in handcuffs.

Homeless advocates say those living in Ukumehame near mile marker 13.5 have a right to be there.

County officials say the area is a major fire risk and the project, led by the Maui Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), aims to protect lives, property, and the only highway connecting Central and West Maui.

“The Honoapiilani Highway is a vital link that connects our communities. By reducing hazardous fuels and ignition risks, we’re not only lowering wildfire danger, we’re keeping our neighbors from being cut off and isolated. Wildfires bring deep trauma to our community, and we have a responsibility to do all we can to prev

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