In a chilling act of violence, one person has been confirmed dead and a military officer injured following a shooting incident involving two gunmen in the Denase Township, located in the Afigya Kwabre District of the Ashanti Region, Ghana. The attack, which targeted a Kumasi-Tamale-bound Toyota minibus, has sent shockwaves through the community and raised concerns about regional security.
The incident occurred at approximately 9 p.m. on Thursday near the local Church of Pentecost building in Denase. According to the Ashanti North Regional Police Commander, DCOP Prince Jude Cobbinah, the attackers—armed with AK-47 rifles—opened fire indiscriminately on the bus as it slowed down at a speed hump. Witness accounts and preliminary investigations suggest that the gunmen may have trailed the vehicle from its Adehyie Market station to the crime scene.
Tragically, one passenger, identified as Abiola, succumbed to gunshot wounds after being hit while seated directly behind the driver. A military officer seated in the front passenger seat was also injured during the attack. Authorities are still working to confirm the identity of the injured officer.
The driver of the bus, displaying remarkable presence of mind amidst the chaos, managed to lower his head to avoid being struck by bullets and sped off to safety. He drove directly to the St. Patrick Catholic Hospital in Offinso, where medical personnel pronounced Abiola dead upon arrival. The injured military officer is currently receiving treatment.
Crime scene investigators from the Ashanti North Regional Police Command have recovered fourteen spent shells at the location of the attack. Both the Ghana card and health insurance card of the deceased were also retrieved at the scene, aiding in identification efforts.
The motive behind this brazen attack remains unclear; however, police suspect it may be connected to the ongoing Bawku conflict. The Bawku conflict has been an enduring source of tension in northern Ghana, and authorities are exploring potential links between this incident and that unrest.
The shooting caused widespread panic among residents and bystanders near the Denase lorry station, many of whom fled for their lives amid the chaos. In response to this alarming event, police have launched a manhunt for the assailants and have intensified security measures within the area.
DCOP Prince Jude Cobbinah assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice and restore calm to the community. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by providing any information that could aid in apprehending the suspects.
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures on Ghana’s roads, particularly in regions affected by ongoing conflicts. As investigations continue, our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Stay tuned for further updates as authorities work to uncover more details surrounding this devastating attack.
-myjoyonline
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
