In a somber turn of events, Asawase, a community in Ghana's Ashanti Region, has been rocked by two fatal shootings that have left residents grieving and concerned about their safety. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has vowed to ensure that the perpetrators behind these heinous acts are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
The IGP made this commitment during a high-level fact-finding mission to the area, accompanied by senior police investigators and top officials from the Ghana Police Service. His visit comes in the wake of two shocking murders that have cast a shadow over the community.
The Tragic Losses
The first incident claimed the life of Mohammed Madi Suleman, a 60-year-old man who was fatally shot on Friday, July 25. Eyewitness accounts reveal that Suleman was attacked while returning to his car from a local eatery. The assailants, believed to be riding a motorbike, approached him at close range and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
This devastating incident occurred just days after another fatal shooting in the same area. Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi chief in the Ashanti Region, was killed at Asawase F-Line under similarly alarming circumstances. Reports indicate that the suspects, riding separate motorbikes, targeted the chief at close range, firing shots before fleeing. Despite being rushed to the Manhyia District Hospital and later transferred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.
Naa Abdul-Malik Azenbe also held the esteemed position of Kaadi Divisional Area Chief in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region, adding another layer of sorrow to his untimely demise.
Police Efforts and Community Assurance
During his visit to Asawase, IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno toured the crime scenes and instructed officers to intensify their investigations. He emphasized that no effort would be spared in identifying and apprehending those responsible for these violent acts.
Director General of Operations at the Ghana Police Service, DCOP Vance Gariba, echoed the IGP's sentiments, assuring residents that justice will be served. He also highlighted the enforcement of an important directive issued by the Ashanti Regional Security Council: banning motorbike movement after 7pm. This measure is part of broader efforts to curb crimes involving motorbike-riding assailants, which have become a troubling trend in recent years.
Grieving Families Call for Justice
As investigations continue, grieving relatives of the victims have expressed their heartbreak and called for swift justice. The family of Mohammed Madi Suleman observed Islamic burial rites for him before transporting his body to Accra for final interment. The loss has left his loved ones and the broader community grappling with shock and sorrow.
Heightened Security Measures
In light of these tragic events, security has been tightened in Asawase to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further incidents. The police remain steadfast in their commitment to uncovering the truth behind these murders and restoring a sense of security to the community.
Conclusion
The killings in Asawase serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by violent crime and its far-reaching impact on communities. While grieving families mourn their losses, the Ghana Police Service has pledged to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of justice for the victims.
As investigations unfold, it is imperative for residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement efforts. The commitment shown by IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno and his team offers hope that those responsible for these heinous acts will be held accountable, ensuring that justice prevails and peace is restored in Asawase.
