The family of Constance Nyarko, popularly known in Koforidua as Yaa Yaa, has confirmed her death following last Saturday’s deadly terrorist attack in northern Burkina Faso.
Yaa Yaa, a well-known tomato trader in Koforidua, was among a group of Ghanaian traders attacked by suspected Islamist insurgents while travelling in the troubled northern part of the country.
A Sister who was among the two survivors in critical condition airlifted to 37 military hospital last night has reportedly confirmed to the family that Yaa Yaa was shot multiple times and burnt to ashes while hiding in their truck.
According to the family, Yaa Yaa’s injured sister, who was airlifted alongside another survivor to the 37 Military Hospital in Accra on Tuesday night, recounted the horrifying ordeal.
She confirmed that she, Yaa Yaa, and their driver attempted to hide inside their truck when the attackers struck.
However, the gunmen reportedly fired multiple shots into the vehicle before setting it ablaze.
The injured sister managed to escape despite sustaining gunshot wounds and severe burns. Yaa Yaa, however, was said to have been burnt beyond recognition.
Kofi, a brother to Yaa Yaa and Awura Afua, both victims of the attack, said the family is devastated by the confirmation of her passing.
On Wednesday, the family house in Koforidua Srodae was flooded with sympathizers following confirmation of her death.
Yaa Agyeiwaa, mother of the deceased trader, described her daughter as the family’s breadwinner and expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
So far, about eight Ghanaian traders, drivers, and labourers are reported to have died in the attack.
Reports indicate that the terrorist separated men from women before opening fire on the group. Out of the 18 traders involved:
Seven were killed instantly
Three men and one woman sustained injuries.Seven other women escaped unhurt
The deceased were buried in Burkina Faso on Monday, while the surviving female traders remain hospitalized.
READ: Police arrest 13 suspected prostitutes, landlord and bouncer in Koforidua
The attack is part of ongoing violence in northern Burkina Faso, where Islamist insurgent groups have intensified assaults in recent years, targeting civilians and travellers.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
