The Yilo Krobo District Hospital in Somanya, Eastern Region, has once again fallen victim to a robbery attack, raising serious concerns about security measures at the facility and the safety of staff and patients.
The latest incident happened around midnight on Thursday, May 15, 2025, when suspected thieves broke into the hospital’s administration block and made away with about GH¢15,000.00
Mr. Emmanuel Ashiabi, Hospital Administrator, speaking to the Ghana News Agency on the matter, stated that the intruders had gained access by cutting through the window net and removing louvre blades, and then forcibly entering the building.
The repeated security breaches at the hospital have heightened fears among staff and patients and prompting calls for urgent intervention to strengthen preventive measures and stop further incidents.
“They broke into the accountant’s office, where they took an undisclosed amount of money, and into the general administration office, damaging the cashier’s door and stealing GH¢15,000,” he said.
The Administrator stated that he was en route to Koforidua for a meeting when he received the news and expressed concern about the hospital’s deteriorating security situation.
He noted that staff, particularly those working night shifts, are becoming increasingly fearful. “This is not the first time the hospital has been targeted.”
On April 28, a 43-inch Hisense television donated to the hospital went missing from the store. No signs of forced entry were found, prompting suspicions of internal involvement.
Mr. Ashaibi added that, just a day later, on April 29, a more violent attack occurred. At around 0200 hours, two unidentified men pretending to be patients convinced a revenue officer at the Outpatient Department to open the door.
Once inside, they attacked her, demanding money, he said.
“She sustained a deep cut on her right arm and a stab wound to her forehead. The robbers fled without taking any money after being startled by her screams.”
He noted that these repeated incidents had deeply shaken the morale of the hospital staff, as many employees were reluctant to work night shifts due to fear for their safety.
He stated that there were growing agitation among staff and called for urgent security measures such as increasing night police patrols and installation of surveillance systems.
“Healthcare workers should not have to fear for their lives while serving the community,” he said.
Mr. Kingsley Abrokwa, Somanya District Police Commander, told the Ghana News Agency that two police officers had been stationed at the Yilo Krobo District Hospital as part of enhanced security measures to address the recent break-ins.
He stated that the nature of the incidents, along with the specific targets of the robberies, suggested the possibility of an inside job.
As investigations continue, hospital staff and residents have urged authorities to implement comprehensive and lasting security reforms to safeguard the facility.
The repeated attacks, they noted, had not only disrupted hospital operations but have also created an atmosphere of fear among staff, patients, and the surrounding community.
