Nurses threaten to abandon post after violent clinic attack

Fear and panic have engulfed health workers at the Akoti Health Centre in Assin Wurakese, within the Assin Fosu Municipality of the Central Region, following a violent attack on a patient by armed individuals inside the facility.

The incident stemmed from a violent altercation between a man identified as Yaw Buabeng and a couple, during which all parties reportedly inflicted cutlass wounds on one another. One of the victims, identified as Daniel, sustained deep injuries to his arm and was the first to arrive at the health centre to receive urgent medical attention.

Moments later, Yaw Buabeng, who had suffered severe head and hand injuries, also rushed to the facility for treatment. While nurses were attending to him, a group of about ten young men armed with machetes, sticks and clubs stormed the health centre and attacked Buabeng, beating him severely and leaving him unconscious.

The attack threw the facility into chaos, forcing nurses and other health workers to flee for their lives and abandon their posts due to safety concerns.

Health officials have since called for a full-scale police investigation and the immediate arrest of the perpetrators. They warned that failure to bring the attackers to justice would compel staff to request transfers, citing serious security threats at the facility.

The incident has been formally reported to the Assin Fosu District Police Command for investigation.

In response, a team of police officers led by the District Commander, ASP Jacob Kumdzro, together with the Assin Fosu Municipal Health Director, Mr Benjamin Amoakoh, visited the facility to assess the situation and reassure staff of their safety. The police assured workers that security at the centre would be strengthened to prevent future incidents.

Speaking to Channel247 News, Divisional Police Commander ACP Dr Asare Nyarkoh said the police are engaging community leaders and intensifying public education on the dangers of violence and lawlessness.

He disclosed that Yaw Buabeng, who is the prime suspect in the initial altercation, is currently receiving treatment at St Francis Hospital under police guard, and appealed to residents to remain calm as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, the Central Regional Health Directorate has condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable, especially as it occurred during working hours at a health facility.

Find below the press statement