Residents of Kwahu Afram Plains are raising serious concerns over a surge in armed robbery incidents targeting traders, drivers, and residents.
The latest attack left a 67-year-old trader from Koforidua injured after armed robbers ambushed a Kia Rhino truck transporting market women.
According to reports gathered by Agoo FM News, the incident occurred on Monday 17th February 2025 around 7:45 p.m. when the truck, carrying about 20 traders, was traveling from Maamekrobo to Ekye Amanfrom. Two armed men, lying in wait by the roadside, opened fire when the driver refused to stop. One of the bullets struck the elderly trader, injuring one of her fingers.
Speaking from a hospital where she is receiving treatment, the victim recounted her ordeal. “I came to Maamekrobo to buy goods with other traders. On our way to Ekye Amanfrom, two armed men began shooting at our vehicle. Unfortunately, I was hit in the hand,” she said.
The traders had planned to rest in Ekye Amanfrom before proceeding to Donkorkrom for another market days, after which they would return to Koforidua, Accra, and other parts of the country. However, their journey was cut short by the attack.
The driver of the Kia Rhino attributed the frequent robberies to the poor condition of the roads, which forces vehicles to move at slow speeds, making them easy targets for criminals. He urged the government to urgently address the deplorable road network to improve security and protect lives.
This is not the first time such incidents have been reported in the area. Historically, robbery cases in Kwahu Afram Plains, particularly in Maamekrobo, Ekye Amanfrom, and Donkorkrom, have spiked during market days. However, residents noted a decline in crime rates following the appointment of Dr. George Akuffo Dampare as Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Despite the initial improvements, recent incidents suggest a resurgence of these crimes. Just last week, another driver shared his harrowing escape from armed robbers in the area. Speaking on Agoo FM’s morning show on Monday, February 17, 2025, another driver also confirmed the increasing frequency of such attacks.
Hon. Abdul Rahman Halidu, Assembly Member for the Maamekrobo Electoral Area, has made an urgent appeal to the IGP, Dr. Dampare, to intensify security measures and restore safety in the area.
