Tensions erupted in Atebubu Amantin Municipality in the Bono East Region after suspected armed robbers murdered a 75-year-old driver on January 10, 2025. Frustrated drivers stormed the local police station, accusing officers of neglecting their duty to ensure road safety. The protest escalated, resulting in damage to a police vehicle.
The incident occurred on the Atebubu-Amantin road, notorious for frequent robberies. Drivers claim the police prioritize collecting fines over preventing crime. Despite over ten police checkpoints, drivers allege that officers abandon their posts at night, leaving them vulnerable.
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) secretary, George Mensah, revealed that six drivers have been killed in recent months. Drivers have declared a strike, refusing to work until effective measures are taken to curb the robberies.
The strike left passengers stranded, with many pleading for government intervention to deploy more security personnel to the area. Military personnel were deployed to restore order, but tensions remain high as drivers demand concrete action for their safety.
