Robbers attack ‘trotro’, shoot 4 passengers

A violent armed robbery attack at Buduatta Junction on the Winneba Highway on Saturday night, July 5, 2025, left four passengers injured after armed men opened fire on a moving minibus.

The victims were rushed to the Trauma and Specialist Hospital in Winneba, where they are currently receiving treatment.

According to reports, police sources say the robbers ambushed vehicles travelling along the highway around 9:00 p.m. and forcefully took mobile phones, cash, and other belongings from passengers.

Unfortunately for Saturday’s victims, the situation turned chaotic when the driver of a Toyota Hiace minibus tried to speed past the robbers. In response, the attackers opened fire on the vehicle, hitting three people onboard.

Following the attack, police quickly launched an operation that led to the arrest of a suspect, Mohammed Bello. He was caught nearby while trying to escape.

During a search, reports say officers found several items on him, including GH₵3,740.00 in cash, two Samsung smartphones, one Tecno Spark 20, an Itel keypad phone, and an Itel power bank. They also found a lady’s purse, five sticks of cigarettes, a wristwatch, a headset, a mobile phone charger head, and a pair of sandals.

One of the victims has already identified the sandals as belonging to them. The police believe the other items may also have been stolen during the robbery.

The suspect is currently in police custody and is assisting with investigations.

The incident has caused fear and anger among road users and residents in the area, as the Winneba Highway has recently become a target for armed robbers.

The Potsin Junction–Okyereko stretch has seen several robbery cases, forcing police to increase patrols. However, the robbers now appear to be shifting to less-secured areas like Buduatta Junction, where there is little or no police presence.

Speaking to Citi News on Sunday, July 6, 2025 Central East Regional Police Commander ACP Francis Nchor said the ongoing road construction and the installation of speed ramps on the highway have made it easier for robbers to carry out their attacks.

He assured the public that police would increase patrols and set up more checkpoints along the highway to improve safety. He also urged drivers and passengers to remain alert, especially at night.

This attack is just one in a series of similar crimes that have taken place along the highway in recent weeks.

On June 11, 2025 a tipper truck driver working for Nag Fairmount Construction was also shot in the eye by armed robbers at Gomoa Potsin, another community along the Kasoa-Winneba Highway. The victim, who was on duty at the time, was left in a critical condition.

Gomoa Dominase District Police Commander ASP Richard Ahiagbor confirmed that more than four robbery cases had been recorded in the area within a single week. He described the situation as worrying and urged the public to support the police in the fight against crime.

Police say they are committed to restoring peace and will continue working to bring all offenders to justice.