Traders at the Race Course Market in Kumasi are facing escalating armed robberies and kidnappings, leaving them in fear for their safety. The attackers, often targeting women, rob them of money, phones, and other valuables. Many traders, who rise early to manage their businesses and family duties, are particularly vulnerable.
Rose Akua Brobbey, a gari seller, shared her harrowing experience of being attacked while in a taxi. She lost GH₵60,000, phones, and other valuables after being drugged, threatened, and beaten by armed thugs. They left her behind the Ebenezer Cemetery in Old Tafo after warning her not to scream. Rose, the primary breadwinner for her family due to her husband’s illness, now faces financial ruin.
Other traders have faced similar incidents, including an attempted kidnapping of two women along the Mampong Road. A witness, Yaa Serwaah, described how robbers often use motorized tricycles (Pragia) to attack victims, even demanding PIN codes to withdraw money from mobile money accounts.
Nana Afua Kyeiwaa, Queen Mother of the Race Course, Bantama, and Suame Markets, has called on the Ghana Police Service to improve security and protect market women. With traders and residents growing increasingly alarmed, there is a strong demand for urgent intervention to restore safety.
