Five people sustained gunshot injuries after armed robbers attacked a VIP JEOUN passenger coach on the Accra–Kumasi Highway late on Thursday, July 30. The attack was one of two separate highway robbery incidents involving the transport operator within two hours.
Highway Ambush: Multiple Gunshot Injuries Reported
According to a statement issued by VIP JEOUN, the first and more serious attack occurred at about 11:00 p.m. between Apedwa Junction, Nkronso, Akooko and Akyem Asafo in the Eastern Region. The company said the assailants used a vehicle to block the highway, trapping three passenger coaches before launching what it described as a coordinated robbery operation.
A VIP JEOUN coach travelling from Accra to Sunyani came under heavy gunfire, leaving the driver, his mate and three passengers with gunshot wounds. The injured victims were rushed to hospital for treatment, with the driver later transferred to the 37 Military Hospital for specialist care.
Police Respond Quickly, Thwart Second Attack
Barely two hours later, at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, another VIP JEOUN coach travelling on the Kumasi–Sunyani Highway was attacked by armed robbers at Potrikrom. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the vehicle, damaging its windscreen. However, an armed security escort travelling with the coach returned fire, forcing the robbers to retreat before they could rob passengers or cause injuries.
A police patrol team later arrived to secure the scene. The Ghana Police Service has not released any information on the identities or motives of the robbers.
Reactions and Commitment to Passenger Safety
Reacting to the incidents, VIP JEOUN reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and said it would continue collaborating with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to enhance security on its routes. In a statement, the company said, "VIP JEOUN values the security of passengers and crew on board and remains committed to ensuring hassle-free transportation."
The company's commitment to passenger safety has been put to the test in recent months, with multiple incidents of highway robbery targeting its coaches. The latest attacks highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by transport operators in Ghana.
Highway Security Remains a Concern
The Accra–Kumasi Highway is a major transportation route in Ghana, connecting the country's capital to the eastern regions. The highway has been a hotspot for highway robberies and other security incidents in recent years, with several transport operators reporting attacks on their coaches.
The Ghana Police Service has increased its presence on the highway, with regular patrols and checkpoints aimed at reducing the incidence of highway robberies. However, the latest attacks highlight the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between transport operators and security agencies to ensure the safety of passengers.
As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of highway security, the latest incidents serve as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to prevent such attacks and protect the lives of passengers and crew.
Source: Joy Online
