In a courageous and coordinated community effort, the Assembly Member for Effiakuma Zongo, Hamza Mohammed Ameen Adam, led the successful rescue of 25 individuals believed to have been kidnapped in the Effia-Kwesimintsim Municipality of Ghana’s Western Region.
The operation began after one of the victims managed to escape and make his way to the Effiakuma Zongo area. Disoriented and desperate for help, the escapee—who reportedly spoke only French—approached a local trader. Realising the urgency of the situation, the trader quickly alerted
Assemblyman Hamza Ameen Adam.
Acting swiftly, the assemblyman mobilised a group of concerned residents to assist in a rescue mission. Guided by the escapee, the team made their way to an eight-bedroom apartment located near the Takoradi Technical University main campus. Upon arrival, they found the doors securely locked, but managed to gain entry by force.
Inside, they discovered 25 individuals, including six women, all of whom appeared malnourished and weak. The victims could not say exactly how long they had been held, but all exhibited signs of prolonged confinement and neglect. Preliminary investigations by the Ghana Police Service suggest that the victims are nationals of neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire.
During initial interrogations conducted by police, five individuals among the rescued group were identified as suspects believed to be behind the kidnapping operation. They have since been isolated and detained as investigations continue.
The rescue has drawn praise from across the region, with many commending Assemblyman Hamza Ameen Adam and the Effiakuma Zongo community for their bravery and quick response. Security experts have noted the incident as a strong example of how local vigilance and leadership can make a critical difference in addressing crime.
The Ghana Police Service is continuing its investigations to determine the full extent of the kidnapping operation, including how the victims were transported and held, and whether there are additional accomplices involved.
Authorities have assured the public that all necessary support will be provided to the victims, including medical care and coordination with relevant embassies for repatriation or asylum where needed.
This incident marks one of the most significant community-led rescues in recent memory and highlights the critical role of local leadership in ensuring safety and justice.
