Mobile money vendors in the Sissala East Municipality of the Upper West Region have indefinitely suspended their services in protest against a wave of violent robbery attacks targeting their members.
This decision, announced by the Mobile Money Vendors Association, comes after 12 armed robbery incidents in the municipality over the past three months, with eight specifically targeting mobile money operators.
In August 2024 alone, four mobile money shops were looted by armed men, resulting in the theft of thousands of Ghana Cedis and the tragic deaths of two people. Although four suspects were arrested, their release on bail has heightened concerns among vendors about their safety and the effectiveness of the legal response.
Tahiru Issahaku, the chairman of the association, emphasized that suspending services is a necessary measure to protect members from further harm. An investigation confirmed that mobile money operators in Tumu and surrounding communities are adhering to this directive, leaving many customers stranded and unable to access mobile money services.
Frustrated customers are now urging local authorities to take immediate action to address the deteriorating security situation. Meanwhile, the Sissala East Municipal Police Command has declined to comment on camera, leaving many questions unanswered.
As the region faces this escalating crisis, there is a growing demand for improved security measures to ensure that residents can continue their daily business activities, especially in an area regarded as the food basket of the Upper West Region.
