Growing Concerns Over Unusual Behaviors at Sunyani Night Market
Petty traders at the Sunyani Night Market in the Bono Regional capital are expressing growing concerns over the increasing presence of young people exhibiting unusual behaviors, reportedly linked to mental health issues. These individuals have been spotted more frequently in the area as Christmas approaches, prompting traders to urge city authorities and relevant institutions to take immediate action.
The traders fear that these individuals, who often display aggressive or erratic behavior, pose a threat to their safety and the stability of the market environment. The situation has become particularly alarming following a recent incident involving a man in his 30s, who was seen running amok on the main street of the Township within the Night Market enclave.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 12:00 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025. The man, dressed neatly in a black T-shirt, brown khaki trousers, and wearing a black cup, assaulted several petty traders along the main street of the enclave. Traders described his appearance as well-groomed but his behavior as highly unpredictable.
Madam Abigail Gyan, one of the affected traders, shared her experience with the Ghana News Agency (GNA). She noted that the man’s aggressive demeanor and strange actions made it impossible for anyone to approach or calm him down. She expressed deep concern about the rising number of such incidents in the area, citing a similar occurrence in the Sunyani Central Business District near the COCOBOD area just last week.
“What seems strange is that it’s only when Xmas approaches that you often notice these characters who carry nice and attractive looks,” Madam Gyan said. Her comments highlight the growing unease among traders, who feel that these individuals are becoming more visible during festive periods.
Another trader, known only as Madam Rhana, shared her own perspective. She admitted to being shocked by the sight of a well-dressed individual displaying such troubling behavior. However, she pointed out that this kind of behavior is not entirely new. She attributed it to factors such as substance abuse and the influence of money-making rituals, which are increasingly affecting the youth.
Mr. Kwame Ofosu, a well-known lotto agent in the area, also voiced his concerns about the growing trend of the “get-rich-quick” mentality among the youth. This phenomenon, commonly referred to as “sakawa,” has gained popularity and is believed to be driving many young people toward risky and unethical activities. He also highlighted the role of football betting and other forms of gambling in exacerbating the issue.
Mr. Ofosu called on the government to take decisive measures to address the problem before it escalates further. His plea reflects the broader sentiment among local traders and community members, who feel that the current situation requires urgent intervention.
Despite multiple attempts by the GNA to reach out to Mr. Vincent Antwi Agyei, the Sunyani Municipal Chief Executive, no response was received. This lack of communication has added to the frustration of those affected by the situation.
As the holiday season approaches, the traders at the Sunyani Night Market remain on high alert, hoping for swift action from the authorities to ensure their safety and the continued prosperity of the market. The growing prevalence of such incidents underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing mental health, substance abuse, and the socio-economic challenges facing the youth in the region.