Four passengers are currently recovering at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital after suspected armed robbers opened fire on their commercial vehicle early this morning. The incident happened at Buduatta Junction on the Kasoa-Winneba Highway. Police have arrested one of the attackers.
The robbery occurred around 1:00 AM when the assailants blocked the highway and began robbing travelers at gunpoint. A Toyota Hiace minibus carrying passengers was shot at when its driver tried to stop.
Robbers Relocate Due to Police Presence
Police indicate that this attack is part of a series of armed robberies in the Gomoa East District, specifically between May and June of this year. Previous victims were targeted around Potsin Junction and Okyereko Junction. Authorities suspect the robbers moved their operations to Buduatta Junction because of increased police checkpoints in those earlier areas.
According to the Central East Regional Police Command, officers from the Formed Police Unit (FPU) and the Kasoa Divisional SWAT team quickly responded to the scene. The injured passengers were rushed to the hospital, and the damaged vehicle was taken to the Dominase District Police Command.
Suspect Apprehended, Police Express Concerns
While returning from the operation, officers encountered two suspicious individuals near the Onion Market around 2:30 AM. One person escaped into the bush, but the other was successfully arrested. A search revealed three mobile phones belonging to the passengers on the suspect, who was then positively identified by both the driver and some passengers.
The arrested suspect has been transferred to the Central East Regional Police Command for further questioning. All four victims remain in the hospital.
Dominase Police Plea for Resources
Meanwhile, officers at the Gomoa Dominase District Police Command have voiced concerns about a lack of resources. They report that their station lacks vehicles and enough personnel to effectively tackle the rising number of robberies in the area. They are appealing to the government and the Inspector General of Police to urgently address these challenges to help protect lives and property.
