Attack on Nigerians: US Bars Citizens from Affected Accra Community, Others

Rotimi Morgan/
The US Embassy in Accra has warned its nationals to avoid some communities in Accra, following last week’s violent attack against Nigerians.
Top on the list of flash points is Sowutuom, where some angry citizens attacked Nigerians living in the community following the stabbing to death of a Ghanaian by a Nigerian, Peter Thompson, while defending himself.
The Regional Police Command subsequently deployed a large number of policemen in Sowutuom to curb any escalation of violence.
A security message posted on the Embassy’s website dated August 24, 2017, expressed concern about the growing crime in the Greater Accra Region especially Sowutuom, Avenor, Sukura, Agbobloshie, Nima and Ashaiman.
“The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that due to credible reports of growing crime rates, U.S. Embassy personnel have been instructed to avoid the following precincts of Accra: Avenor, Sowutuom Sukura, Agbobloshie, Ashaiman (located in the Tema Region) and Nima (Except when traveling via the main highway past Nima).”
Police for the past weeks have also been on high alert in Avenor to avert a possible bloodletting between articulated and spare parts dealers and workers of a private developer.
The other areas- Agblogbloshie, Nima and Ashaiman- which are notorious for periodic violence, have, however, not recorded any incidents in recent times.
That notwithstanding, the Embassy encouraged US citizens to “review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates”.
“Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security and follow instructions of local authorities,” it added.