Veep visits families of deceased bodyguards

Accra, Nov. 29, GNA - Grief stricken Vice President Aliu Mahama, on Tuesday led a government delegation to call on the families of his three bodyguards who lost their lives in a motor accident in the Brong Ahafo Region on Sunday while on the line of duty.

Accompanied by Alhaji Boniface Saddique, Minister of Youth and Employment and presidential aids, Alhaji Mahama called on the families of Sergeant (Sgt.) Major Bawah Ayomah, Sgt.

Edward Anane Koranteng and Sgt. Azumah Alhassan in Accra. In a terse message at Sgt Ayomah's residence at the Cantonment Police Barracks where wailing friends and relatives had gathered, Alhaji Saddique, who spoke on behalf of the Vice President described the late policeman as a very dedicated person whose death was inevitable since it had been destined by God. Quoting from the Bible and the Koran to buttress his point, he said it was when one was enjoying his or her family life that God decides to test their faith.

He consoled Mrs Lamisi Ayomah, wife of the deceased who was crying uncontrollably.

At the Nima Police Barracks, sermonising Alhaji Saddique told the widow of Sgt Azumah Alhassan, Police Corporal Dora Akuffo; and other members of his family that as religious persons, they must accept whatever came their way since it was the will of God. He prayed that God should give the departed policeman a befitting rest.

At the Tesano Police Barracks, where the delegation met with the tearful relatives of Sgt. Edward Anane Koranteng, Police Lance Corporal James Ofosu Amoako said there would be a family meeting soon to decide the date for the burial and funeral of the deceased. Alhaji Saddique comforted the widow, Madam Agnes Sam and the bereaved family.

Alhaji Mahama and his entourage later visited the 37 Military Hospital where the driver of the vehicle involved in the accident and two Metro Television journalists, Mr Edmund Bediako and Fred Bonny where receiving medical attention.

The Commanding Officer of the Hospital, Brigadier General Joseph Wadwahani, said the patients where responding to treatment and would be discharged soon.

The accident occurred when the Vice President and his entourage were returning from Techiman and Aworowa as part of a two-day visit to the Brong Ahafo Region.