A devastating scene unfolded in Aflao in Ghana's Volta Region on the evening of Monday, April 28, 2025, when a mobile money vendor was tragically shot and killed during a robbery. The victim, identified as Christopher Ahordo and popularly known in the area as Colombo, lost his life in a shocking attack that has left the local community in disbelief and mourning.
According to eyewitness reports and confirmation from journalist Sylvia Awuye, the robbery occurred around 6:15 p.m. at Gbagblakope, a location not far from the Diamond Cement Factory. Colombo, known for his reliable services, typically closed his business by 5:00 p.m., but on this unfortunate evening, he was still at his post. The reasons for the late closing remain uncertain.
Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene in which two masked individuals dressed in long robes approached Colombo’s kiosk. They were reportedly armed with pump-action shotguns and moved swiftly as they closed in on their target. Without warning, they seized a bag believed to contain the day’s earnings from the mobile money business.
In the process of escaping, one of the armed robbers fired a shot that struck Colombo in the chest. The impact was fatal, and despite being in a relatively public area, no immediate assistance could be offered. Residents who witnessed the incident revealed that they were forced to take cover, as the assailants fired recklessly to discourage any pursuit while making their escape into a nearby bush.
The news sent shockwaves through the Gbagblakope community, where Colombo was a well-known figure. Described by neighbours as humble and hardworking, his untimely death has sparked sadness and concern over the rising threat mobile money vendors face across Ghana. His body was later retrieved by local residents and transported to the Ketu South Municipal Hospital mortuary, where it currently awaits autopsy.
Law enforcement authorities have since been notified, and the Ketu South Municipal Police have launched an official investigation. While no arrests have been made yet, the police are appealing to the public for any relevant information that may assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects involved.
Incidents involving mobile money robberies have been on the rise, with several reported cases in the Ashanti Region and other parts of the country earlier this year. The nature of mobile money transactions—often involving large sums of cash—has made vendors vulnerable to such attacks, especially in areas with limited police patrols or surveillance infrastructure.
Community leaders and residents are now calling for stronger security measures to protect mobile money operators and other small business owners who deal in cash transactions. Many believe increased police presence, better lighting in high-risk areas, and closer cooperation between business owners and security agencies could help deter criminal activity.
The emotional impact of the incident is profound, not just for Colombo’s immediate family but for the entire Aflao community. His absence leaves a void in the daily lives of many who depended on his services for their financial needs. As the police continue their investigation, there is a collective hope that the perpetrators will be brought to justice and that similar tragedies can be prevented in the future.
The incident highlights the pressing need for both policy intervention and practical safety measures to address the growing threat facing mobile money operators in Ghana. For now, the people of Aflao mourn the loss of a man whose only intention was to serve his community, even if it meant working beyond normal hours.
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