Residents of Manso Nkwanta and other towns in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region say they are living in fear over frequent armed robbery attacks.

The security concerns of the residents took center-stage during a town hall meeting where the residents attributed the rising trend of attacks on inadequate police personnel in the area.

The Amansie West District has a population of over 150,000 spread across 67 communities.

However, only 45 police personnel with one patrol vehicle provide security for the entire district.

Queen mother of Manso Abodom, one of the communities, Akwamuhemaa Nana Yaa Serwaa Bempomaa II, describes the crime situation as worrying.

“There aren’t enough police men in Amansie West. This poses a threat to security. Our roads are also in a deplorable state, there are high cases of school dropouts and teenage pregnancies. We are therefore calling on the President of Ghana to come to our aid,” she said.

District Chief Executive for the area, William Asare Bediako, fears more residents could fall victim to the increasing crime rates.

“For some time now it has become scary because if armed robbers can strike three times in a day then it is very scary. We are trying all means to curb the situation but it is not easy because of the limited police personnel,” he adds.

He said, “Initially it looked as if we have been left alone to our fate, but of late the authorities are responding to our calls, we are calling on residents to assist the police in apprehending the culprits.”

Mr. Asante Bediako however, urged authorities to intensify their assistance.

Member of Parliament for Amansie West, Joseph Albert Quarm, notes that increased police visibility, with improved resources, will curb the menace.

“We are calling on all stakeholders to set up community watchdogs to assist the police to solve the rampant robbery attacks on the people,” he urged.

Meanwhile, the deployment of anti-galamsey task force, Operation Vanguard, to neighbouring communities like Obuasi-Wawase has reduced crime rates there.