Samuel Whyte
Road safety advocate, Samuel Whyte, has warned the public against engaging in solo confrontations with individuals involved in potentially illegal acts, following his recent experience of being attacked at the Ofankor Barrier railway.
In a public statement, Whyte advised citizens who wish to address public misconduct to involve law enforcement, cautioning that personal intervention can lead to violence or even death.
He shared his ordeal when he approached a group of young men reportedly dismantling metal parts from the railway.
Whyte explained that he and his assistant adopted a calm approach, politely inquiring about the group’s activities and their leadership.
Despite their non-confrontational tone, the youth quickly turned hostile, questioning Whyte’s authority and warning him to stay out of their business. Tensions escalated, and the group of about 15 launched an attack.
Whyte described the encounter as one of the most frightening moments of his life, saying he felt immediate danger.
He credited several women in a nearby shop who intervened, pulling him and his assistant into the shop for safety and advising them to stay silent to avoid further escalation. “If it wasn’t for those women, I don’t know what would have happened,” he said.
Following the incident, Whyte reported the attack to the Ofankor Police and is now focused on educating the public through his foundation.
He stressed that vigilantis can lead to severe consequences, and emphasised the importance of relying on the police to address public misconduct.
“Any well-meaning citizen could face a similar threat. It’s vital that we work with security services to protect ourselves and prevent harm,” he said.