A heroic immigration officer prevented a potential massacre at an Anglican Church in Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region on Saturday, when he rescued two police officers who were overpowered by a violent man wielding a pestle and a knife.
The immigration officer, AICOII Nurudeen Abul-Ganiew Takra, was on his way home from work when he saw a crowd of terrified people near the church park, close to the Wiawso District Police Station.
He rushed to the scene and found an inspector and a corporal lying unconscious on the ground, with their AK 47 rifle dropped beside them.
The attacker, who had earlier stormed the church and assaulted some worshippers, was trying to grab the rifle and cause more harm, but Takra was faster and snatched the weapon before him.
The attacker then charged at Takra with a pestle, ignoring his warning shot. Takra had no choice but to shoot him in the right thigh to stop him.
According to ACI Augustus Acheampong, the Western Regional Immigration Service Commander, Takra acted with extreme caution and professionalism, as he was mindful of the safety of the crowd that had gathered around.
He said Takra handed over the rifle and the attacker’s belongings, which included a sharp knife and a locally made catapult, to the police for further investigation.
The two police officers and the attacker were taken to the Wiawso Municipal Hospital for treatment.
A formal report has reportedly been made to the police and the AK 47 rifle handed over to the Wiawso District Police for further action.
More details to follow as investigations advance.
Source: The Independent Ghana