Four passengers are receiving treatment at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital after suspected armed robbers opened fire on a commercial minibus at Buduatta Junction along the Kasoa-Winneba Highway around 1:00 a.m.
According to police reports, the robbers had blocked the road and were robbing commuters at gunpoint when the Toyota Hiace vehicle approached. The driver attempted to stop, prompting the assailants to open fire, injuring four passengers.
Police believe the incident is part of a pattern of robberies targeting travelers in the Gomoa East District, with similar attacks reported at Potsin and Okyereko Junctions between May and June. Increased police presence in those areas may have pushed the criminals to Buduatta.
Responding swiftly, officers from the Formed Police Unit (FPU) and Kasoa Divisional SWAT rushed to the scene. The injured were transported to hospital, and the vehicle was escorted to the Dominase Police Station.
While returning, police encountered two suspects near the Onion Market at 2:30 a.m. One escaped into the bush, but the other was arrested. A search revealed three stolen phones, and he was positively identified by the driver and some passengers.
The suspect is now in custody at the Central East Regional Police Command for further investigations.
Meanwhile, the Gomoa Dominase Police say they lack enough vehicles and personnel to effectively tackle rising crime in the area and are appealing to government and the IGP for urgent support.
