59-year-old driver narrowly escapes death after being shot by armed robbers

A 59-year-old driver, Isaac Ayim, narrowly escaped death after being shot by armed robbers on the Gomoa Akoti-Kwanyako highway in the Gomoa East District of the Central Region.

Despite sustaining multiple gunshot wounds to the head, Ayim demonstrated remarkable bravery, managing to drive himself and his assistant to the nearest police checkpoint at the Gomoa Desum police station for help.

The incident occurred during the early hours of Saturday, January 11, 2025, when Ayim, driving a Kia truck with his assistant, Frimpong Kojo, encountered a group of five armed robbers on the highway.

The robbers reportedly used flashlights to signal the vehicle to stop but opened fire when Ayim refused. Several bullets penetrated the truck’s windscreen, with some striking Ayim’s head.

Despite his injuries and blood dripping down his face, Ayim maintained composure and continued driving until he reached a police checkpoint several meters away from the attack site. His quick thinking and courage ensured the safety of both himself and his assistant.

Recounting the harrowing experience to Ghone News’ Yaw Boagyan, Ayim said, “We were told there were robbers on the road, so we waited at Gomoa Akraman for about 30 minutes before proceeding. When we finally drove off, someone flashed a light at us, but we didn’t stop, fearing it was the robbers. They started shooting, and though I was hit, I kept driving until we reached the police station.”

Ayim was initially treated at the Gomoa Potsin Polyclinic before being transferred to Winneba Specialist Hospital, where he is currently receiving further medical care.

Some of the gunshots also damaged the windscreen of Ayim’s Kia truck.

The robbery has sparked renewed concerns among residents and commuters who use the Gomoa Akoti-Kwanyako highway, a stretch that has reportedly seen several similar attacks in recent months.

Many commercial drivers and passengers have expressed fears over the rising trend of highway robberies and are calling on authorities to strengthen security measures in the area.

Speaking to Ghone News, some drivers urged the police to be better equipped and adequately resourced to patrol the area effectively. They called on the authorities to step up security along the stretch, as armed men continue to harass travelers daily.

No arrest has been made yet, but police have launched an investigation into the matter.