A criminologist from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr. Jones Opoku-Ware, has called on Mobile Money (MoMo) vendors to take their security seriously. He emphasized that MoMo agents handle large amounts of cash daily, making them prime targets for armed robbers. His warning follows the tragic murder of a female MoMo vendor in Krofrom, Ashanti Region, which has heightened concerns over vendor safety. Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Opoku-Ware advised MoMo agents to avoid operating in open areas, as such locations make them vulnerable to criminals. He pointed out that most vendors conduct transactions in small kiosks or under umbrellas in open spaces, which exposes them to potential attacks. Instead, he recommended that vendors work from enclosed shops with added security measures, including surveillance systems or on-site security personnel, to deter criminals.
Furthermore, Dr. Opoku-Ware suggested that telecommunication companies should implement stricter security regulations for MoMo operations. He argued that these companies, which benefit from the financial services provided by vendors, should take responsibility for ensuring their safety. According to him, before authorizing a vendor to operate, telecom firms should verify that they have secure locations with proper safety measures. This would help reduce the risks associated with handling large amounts of cash in public spaces. He stressed that MoMo has created significant employment opportunities and plays a crucial role in financial transactions, but its operation should not compromise vendors' safety. By enforcing stricter guidelines, telecom companies can protect their agents from frequent armed robberies and other security threats.
The recent increase in attacks on MoMo vendors has sparked widespread concern among industry players and the general public. Many agents have expressed fear over their safety, with some even calling for security reinforcements, such as police patrols around MoMo transaction points. The tragic incident in Krofrom is just one of many cases where vendors have been targeted in broad daylight by armed criminals. In response, security experts and stakeholders continue to urge vendors to adopt safer business practices and demand better protection from both authorities and telecommunication companies. As MoMo operations continue to grow, it has become crucial to implement measures that will safeguard vendors from violent attacks, ensuring they can conduct their business without feature.
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