In various market centers across the Central Region, including Mankessim, Nyankomasi Ahenkro, Winneba, Cape Coast, Ajumako, Agona Swedru, Kasoa, Assin Fosu, Apam, Twifo Praso Dunkwa On-Offin, Breman Asikuma, Saltpond, and other communities, a growing number of angry residents have expressed their frustration and concern over the increasing population of mentally ill individuals. In their desperation, some have even resorted to threatening to poison these individuals.
The residents argue that the surge in mentally ill individuals poses a significant threat to their own safety and well-being. Tragically, within just one week, five people have fallen victim to violent attacks by mentally ill individuals in the Agona West District. These individuals have taken to the Kasoa-Cape Coast Highway, terrorizing residents with weapons and other dangerous objects. They have also been reported to destroy farm produce and chase farmers with menacing tools such as cutlasses, sticks, and stones, instilling fear and panic in the area.
Market women, in particular, have voiced their distress, highlighting the threats to their lives and the injuries inflicted upon innocent people by mentally ill individuals. Faced with this alarming situation, some residents have contemplated resorting to poisoning these individuals as a desperate measure to eliminate the perceived danger they pose.
Part of the blame for this escalating crisis has been directed towards the psychiatric hospitals in the Central Region. Residents claim to have witnessed authorities from these hospitals secretly dumping mentally ill individuals in various market centers during the night, thereby contributing to the rise in their numbers.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com
