Some transport companies plying between Kumasi and parts of the three northern regions are contemplating withdrawing services to parts of the enclave for security reasons.
This comes after the shooting and torching of a bus at Walewale in the North East Region, resulting in the death of seven people.
Director of ADT Transport, Richard Karikari, addressing a press conference in Kumasi, called on the government to consider security arrangements for transport operators in a bid to support the local economy.
”If some private people are investing in transport business, it is up to the government to help us protect our investments. If the government is unable to provide the necessary security for us, then it will be better for us to park our coaches or ply other routes until peace is restored”, he said.
In mid-February, the coach owned by ADT Transport, which was transporting passengers to Kumasi, developed a mechanical fault at Loagri, near a police barrier.
According to the driver’s mate, Hamidu Alhassan, some gunmen opened fire on them early Saturday morning before setting the bus ablaze.
The driver’s assistant, who was able to run to safety, says with improved security, he is ready to continue plying the route.
Hamidu Alhassan says, “We plead with government to improve security on the route. Plying it is becoming too risky.”
Following the loss of lives, some of the transport operators are gradually withdrawing their services to parts of the regions of the north.
Owners of ADT Transport say the government has yet to reach out to transport operators regarding issues of security on the route.
Meanwhile, the transport company whose property was lost in the attack wants the government to help arrest the perpetrators of the crime.
Mr. Karikari is pleading with the government to support the company in replacing the coach.
“The government should help arrest perpetrators of the crime so we can sue them for the lost investment or government can help us replace it. The injured and deceased may get some compensation from the insurance company but we have nowhere to turn to”, he added.
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