The Ashanti Region has been gripped by fear following the gruesome murder of a third mobile money (MoMo) vendor within days, prompting an outcry from residents for immediate security reinforcements.
The latest incident occurred in Kwadaso in the Kwadaso Municipality, where 25-year-old Junior, a native of Ejisu Onwe, was brutally killed in his one-room apartment on Saturday, March 8. According to police reports, Junior was attacked after returning home with a significant amount of money. The assailants tied his hands and legs, taped his mouth shut, and inflicted deep lacerations on his neck before fleeing with an undisclosed sum of money.
The horrifying discovery was made after neighbours, led by the landlord, George Boateng, raised concerns over a foul smell emanating from Junior’s room. “He was found with his legs tied, hands bound behind his back, and his neck slashed. It was a horrific sight,” Boateng recounted.
This shocking incident follows two similar murders of MoMo vendors in the region. Just last month, 27-year-old Patricia Nimako was shot dead in Krofrom, with her attackers escaping with GH¢10,000 and mobile phones. Another vendor was also murdered under similar circumstances in Amansie Asaman.
Hon. Ernest Kwabena Frimpong, Assemblyman for Kwadaso, has called on the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to take urgent action. “Residents are living in fear. We need increased police presence and strategic interventions to curb these attacks,” he stressed.
The Kwadaso police have launched investigations, with crime scene investigators visiting the location to gather evidence. Junior’s body has been deposited at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for autopsy as authorities intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators.
The recent killings have heightened security concerns in the Ashanti Region, with many residents demanding swift action from the government and law enforcement agencies to protect MoMo vendors and other vulnerable groups.
“We cannot continue to live in fear. These criminals must be apprehended, and security must be enhanced to prevent further tragedies,” a resident lamented.
The wave of killings has cast a shadow over the region, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to restore safety and peace to the affected communities.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson # ahotoronline.com
