A tragic shooting incident in Denase, a community in the Afigya Kwabre North District of the Ashanti Region, has left residents reeling with sorrow after two people were killed and three others injured in what local authorities believe may have been a targeted assault rather than a random robbery.
Among the deceased is Peggy Ayelbassah, a young woman with aspirations of becoming a nurse. Her life was cut short while on her way to Salaga for an admission interview at a nursing training college. Her death has cast a shadow over the community, especially after it was revealed that she had communicated with the area’s Member of Parliament, Collins Adomako-Mensah, just a day before her untimely passing.
The MP shared the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post, expressing his devastation over the loss of such a promising young life. “She sent me a message just yesterday. This is beyond heartbreaking,” he wrote, highlighting the personal impact of the tragedy.
According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred late Thursday night when gunmen ambushed a moving vehicle in Denase, unleashing a hail of bullets. Chaos erupted as terrified residents scrambled for safety, with the sounds of gunfire echoing through the town.
Three individuals who sustained injuries during the attack are currently being treated at the Offinso Saint Patrick Hospital, where medical staff are working to stabilize their conditions.
Local leaders and residents believe the attack was not coincidental. Kwabena Asamoah, the Unit Committee Chairman for the Denase Electoral Area, indicated that the calculated nature of the shooting suggests premeditation. “This didn’t look like a robbery,” he said. “It appeared the gunmen knew exactly who they were targeting.”
The incident is the latest in a series of violent episodes that have plagued Denase in recent times. The community, gripped by fear and anger, is demanding a swift and strategic security response to prevent future tragedies.
In the wake of the killings, the Ghana Police Service has assured residents that a full-scale investigation is underway to apprehend the perpetrators. Authorities have also pledged to step up security in the area.
As Denase mourns the loss of its own, the life of a young woman who once dreamed of healing others has become a symbol of a broader call for justice and peace in vulnerable communities.
