Calls for urgent government intervention have intensified following a deadly armed robbery attack on the Bole-Bamboi highway, where a man in his 50s, identified as Balenbogma, was fatally shot, and his son critically injured.
The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. at Taselema, a known danger spot along the Techiman-Wa route, as the victims journeyed from Sunyani to Lawra for their late mother’s burial.
Eyewitnesses, including commercial drivers, say the criminals took advantage of the deplorable state of the road — riddled with potholes and poorly lit — to set up yet another ambush. They allege that such attacks have become increasingly frequent, with some passengers reportedly subjected to physical and even sexual violence during past robberies.
“This has become a hotspot for criminals,” one driver lamented. “They know vehicles have to slow down because of the terrible road, so they strike with ease. This has gone on for too long.”
The body of the deceased was transported to the Taselema Polyclinic mortuary, while his injured son is receiving emergency medical care at the same facility.
Residents and road users are demanding immediate government action — not only to rehabilitate the stretch but also to deploy more security personnel to the area. Many argue that improved road infrastructure, along with consistent police patrols, would go a long way to deterring armed attacks and restoring confidence for commuters.
As the Bole-Bamboi highway becomes increasingly notorious for violence, community leaders are calling on the Ministries of Roads and Highways, and Interior, to treat the issue as a national security concern.
