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Two Canadian women who were abducted one week ago by gunmen outside a popular nightspot in Ghana have been rescued.
In a statement by Youth Challenge International, Lauren Tilley and Bailey Chitty were rescued by Ghanaian police. They are safe and both the police and Government of Ghana are ensuring the young women’s protection.
Youth Challenge International, the Toronto-based non-profit organization the women were working with in Ghana, says the women were unhurt and are receiving emotional and psychological support from professionals.
The young women, aged 19 and 20, were rescued early Wednesday morning in the country’s south-central Ashanti Region, according to the Ministry of Information. They were abducted in Kumasi, the country’s second-largest city, on June 4.
“We would like to thank the Government of Ghana for their cooperation in the resolution of this case. Consular officials are providing assistance to the Canadians and their families.”
Spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada
Jonathan Ofori, Northern Sector Editor for Daily Mail GH, told CTV News Channel the morning raid took place in Achiase, which is located approximately 150 kilometres southeast of Kumasi. Ofori also said 10 to 14 suspects were arrested in the raid that led to the women’s rescue.
Ghana, a relatively peaceful nation, has recorded multiple abductions in recent months, prompting President Nana Akufo-Addo to declare a crackdown on kidnapping.
The Canadian government currently has a travel advisory in place for Ghana to “Exercise a high degree of caution”
The advisory also states “Violent crimes, including armed robbery and kidnapping, may occur. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone or displaying signs of wealth. Ensure that windows and doors in your residence are secured.”