Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has called for severe consequences for military personnel involved in extra-judicial killings in Bawku.
This statement comes in the wake of the fatal shooting of three young men from Bawku by military personnel, leading to increased tension in the area.
Eyewitnesses claim the young men were unarmed and did nothing to provoke the military’s attack. Mr. Dafeamekpor expressed concern about continued incidents of gun violence in Bawku despite heavy militarization, suggesting that some individuals are not fulfilling their duties appropriately.
“We have a national security strategy document. If you read it, Bawku features in it prominently. They are the strategies drawn by the national security apparatus to deal with the problem.
“So I am surprised that even with all the strategies outlined in the document dealing with the issues, we still have this problem.
“Why? Because there are no consequences arising when people commit crimes or offences or commit acts that ought to be punished. These are extra judicial killings,” he said.
Mr. Dafeamekpor emphasized that without holding accountable military personnel engaged in extra-judicial killings and imposing severe consequences, the crisis in the area could escalate into a more serious conflict.
“When things like this happen, there must be consequences. People must be punished. If we don’t punish, we’ll create an artificial war and commit murder and that for me is what I suspect is happening, create a conflict situation and kill your opponent in the name of conflict,” he said.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Bawku, Amadu Hamza Zanga, has stated that the three young men who were shot by soldiers were involved in a gunfight with the military.
He mentioned that on the day of the incident, he heard gunshots near his home and inquired from the military commander in the area.
According to the MCE, he was informed that the deceased men had attacked the officers, prompting the military to retaliate.
The specific cause of the gunfight was not disclosed, but the MCE mentioned that gunshots had been heard in Bawku in the days leading up to the incident.
“The Commander of the military on the ground told me they had an exchange with some boys…. I asked, ‘What boys? Where are they coming from?’ But being a stranger, it was difficult to tell me exactly where they were coming from. I asked what happened, and they told me they [the boys] actually fired at them, and they [the soldiers] also fired back.”
“Because of that, they were able to neutralize them. So, it led to the death of three persons, and they called the police to come for them. This is exactly what the military commander told me. I went back to the police commander, and he told me the same story,” the MCE told Samson Lardy Anyenini, host of the show.
Although the specific cause of the fight was not revealed, Mr. Zanga believes that a series of incidents leading to the death of individuals in Bawku may have contributed to the incident. He mentioned that a week before the shooting incident, one man was killed, followed by the killing of a Mamprusi man, and three days later, six people were shot not far from a police station.
“This led to the instant death of one Mossi man, and then the following morning, a 17-year-old died through that incident. Now, four of the victims are currently hospitalised,” Mr. Zanga said.
“Then we heard of another incident in Bolgatanga, of which somehow others related it to the Bawku case. So, because of that, gunshots started in the whole Bawku,” he added.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Bawku, Amadu Hamza Zanga, mentioned that there have been cases in Bawku where people have fired gunshots without any apparent reason. T
This information comes in the context of three additional reported deaths in Bawku, with Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, stating that the individuals were shot by soldiers.
The MCE had earlier indicated that the deceased young men were involved in a gunfight with the military, but Mr. Ayariga refuted this claim, asserting that the men were innocent according to eyewitness testimony.
“Eyewitnesses saw everything that happened. These boys were not exchanging fire with anybody; they were actually apprehended. They were sitting [when the soldiers approached]; one ran away, but the others were sitting because they had done nothing wrong.”
“They picked them up; the assemblyman came out and pleaded for them to release the boys. They refused, and ultimately they shot the boys,” he said.
Mr Ayariga noted that the military would not openly admit to their alleged crime if it incriminated them.
“When soldiers do that, do you expect to come and tell us we just beat them because they annoyed us and we started shooting them? Naturally, the security persons who have committed the acts will cover their tracks.”
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Bawku Central in the Upper East region, Mahama Ayariga, has denied assertions suggesting the military’s non-involvement in the tragic killing of three individuals within the constituency.
Expressing deep concern and disbelief, Ayariga finds it challenging to comprehend why the military would engage in such actions, emphasizing the paramount importance of fostering collaboration with constituents to build and maintain trust within the community.
During an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 20, Mr. Ayariga unequivocally stated that the security agencies bear responsibility for the unfortunate killings.
He expressed his concern that such incidents could create an environment where the community becomes resistant to cooperation with law enforcement, hindering the overall security situation.
“I find it totally unacceptable that the military should behave the way that they have in Bawku, particularly the way that these three young men were killed,” he stressed, highlighting the gravity of the situation. “They were murdered because the military actually apprehended them, and they had no reason to shoot and kill these three young men. So, I find that totally unacceptable, and we will continue to demand accountability on the part of the security agencies.”
When pressed on the circumstances leading to the tragic incident, the Bawku Central MP provided a detailed account, stating, “Young men were sitting in their base and having their conversation, and then the military pounced on them. One escaped; they shot and missed, and then the three that were there, they apprehended them, beat them up, and then they shot them.”
Challenging the notion that the military could act without provocation, Mr. Ayariga insisted, “Exactly that is why I’m condemning them because they should produce the provocation – what was the provocation?”
He further explained that the military apprehended and killed the individuals without justification.
Eyewitnesses, including the local assemblyman, have confirmed the events.
“I’m saying on authority that there are eyewitnesses – the assemblyman for the area is alive; he came out and pleaded with the soldiers to release the boys, and they refused, so there are witnesses,” Ayariga asserted.
A Lecturer at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Dr. Victor Doke, has advised the government to invest in the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to address and resolve the Bawku conflict.
He suggests that providing adequate funding for conflict resolution bodies would ensure effective engagement with the various factions involved in the conflict.
Dr. Doke believes that this proactive approach, involving sustained investment, will position the government at the forefront of addressing the Bawku conflict, rather than allocating resources only after the conflict has escalated.
Speaking on The Pulse on JoyNews, he recalled how in the early 2000’s, “We had a consortium of NGOs that went to Kumasi, engaged the two factions and came up with recommendations. What has come out of those recommendations? Can we boldly say that the recommendations have been implemented?
Dr. Victor Doke recalled that there were plans to establish and resource a peace committee or secretariat to address the Bawku conflict.
“In fact, this is a body that is mandated to look at the conflict and address it. It was constituted of members or representatives of every ethnic group in Bawku. This committee has not been resourced. They need periodic capacity building with regard to conflict resolution so that they can address issues relating to festival celebrations, burials, and whatnot.”
Dr. Victor Doke emphasized that the only way to completely resolve the Bawku conflict is through continued engagement with all factions involved.
He suggests that a conflict resolution body should maintain regular and up-to-date engagement with the parties in conflict to have a comprehensive understanding of the issues.
“We don’t have the sustained engagement going on so we have this, what we call… firefight push coming in every time. You are not looking at the structural preventive measures.
“The creation of jobs, ensuring that there is justice where people who have been found to be perpetuating crime either in Bawku or outside have been made to face the full rigorous of the law. That has not happened,” he said.
Buem Member of Parliament, Kofi Adams, has urged for calm in Bawku, emphasizing its status as a crucial ‘business hub’ for both the northern region and the entire nation.
He stressed that stability in Bawku is essential for the overall prosperity of the country. Adams made these remarks on the Key Points show on TV3 on Saturday, January 20.
The call for peace comes in the wake of an unfortunate incident on Wednesday, January 17, where unknown gunmen fired into a group at the community center in Bawku, resulting in two fatalities and four injuries.
“Bawku is a business hub for the country and the northern part, a lot could be gained from having a stable Bawku. We must all be interested in having lasting peace in Bawku,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, January 20.
“…those who were killed yesterday, that was dastardly, that was unacceptable and the perpetrators must be searched for by the law enforcement agencies and dealt with.”
The incident was strongly condemned by the Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mr. Mahama Ayariga, who described it as both dastardly and unacceptable.
Mr. Ayariga urged law enforcement agencies to swiftly apprehend and take action against the perpetrators.
Speaking on the Ghana Tonight show on TV3 on Thursday, January 19, he expressed his dismay over the ongoing violence in Bawku and stressed the need for decisive action against those responsible.
Last week, the Minister for the Interior, through an Executive Instrument, extended the curfew hours in Bawku Municipality and its surroundings from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am, effective Friday, January 12, 2024.
The government called on community leaders and residents to exercise restraint and employ non-violent means to address challenges and maintain peace.
Furthermore, there is a complete ban on carrying arms, ammunition, or offensive weapons in the specified areas, and anyone found in possession of such items will face arrest and prosecution.
“It is unfortunate that we continue to experience this situation that has caused so many lives to be lost, so many people to be injured and hospitalized and so much property to be lost in Bawku central constituency.
“…those who were killed yesterday, that was dastardly, that was unacceptable and the perpetrators must be searched for by the law enforcement agencies and dealt with.”
A bus carrying approximately 45 students from the Presbyterian Nurses Training College in Bawku was attacked by two gunmen on motorbikes near Binduri in the Upper East region.
The incident, which occurred on a Friday afternoon, resulted in injuries to several students who were subsequently rushed to the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital for treatment.
The attack took place as the students, who had recently concluded their activities, were en route to Bolgatanga. They were ambushed by the two assailants on motorbikes near the police barrier at Binduri, where the bus was reportedly fired upon. Fortunately, there were no reported fatalities.
In the wake of the incident, the Municipal Chief Executive of Bawku, Amadu Hamza, confirmed the attack and informed that the students who escaped unhurt were escorted by the police to Bolgatanga.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, with Hamza suggesting that gunshots are sometimes heard in Bawku without an apparent cause. The incident follows a series of killings in the region over the past 48 hours.
Security analyst Adib Sani has identified impunity as a primary factor contributing to the persisting conflict in Bawku.
Mr Sani emphasized the virtual lack of consequences for troublemakers in the region, creating an environment conducive to ongoing gun violence.
The recent incident, where unknown gunmen targeted a group, resulting in two deaths and four injuries, serves as a grim reminder of the deep-rooted challenges.
“The uncomfortable truth is that the level of impunity in Bawku is unfathomable, it defied all semblance of sanity.
The probability of you getting held to account for killing in Bawku is almost zero. The Police themselves are protecting themselves and have constructed a huge wall.”
Speaking on 3FM’s Hot Edition, Mr Sani expressed deep concern about the alarming level of impunity in Bawku, where the likelihood of being held accountable for violent actions is almost nonexistent.
Member of Parliament for Bawku, Mahama Ayariga, strongly condemned the recent shootings and called on law enforcement agencies to swiftly apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators.
The government had previously extended curfew hours and imposed a comprehensive ban on carrying arms in the affected areas as part of efforts to restore peace.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics at play and the urgent need for comprehensive interventions to address the root causes of the conflict in Bawku.
A gathering of women in the Bawku township expressed their grievances on Friday, staging a protest against reported brutality by military personnel towards residents.
In a video capturing the protest, hundreds of women were seen chanting slogans like, “We don’t need them [the military], we want them out.”
The demonstration was triggered by alleged incidents on Thursday evening, where soldiers reportedly entered the Bawku township and discharged firearms indiscriminately, leading to casualties.
“We have not been able to verify the number of people that are injured. After the military fired, some of the people have dispersed, and some of them are still there protesting and the injured have been taken to the Vineyard Hospital,” shared one resident in an interview with Citi News.
Earlier in the week, unidentified gunmen reportedly fired into a crowd at the community center, resulting in the tragic death of two individuals and injuries to four others.
A group of women in the Bawku township staged a protest on Friday, alleging brutality by military personnel against residents.
In a video, hundreds of women were observed chanting, “We don’t need them [the military], we want them out.”
The protest was triggered by reported incidents on Thursday evening when soldiers allegedly entered the Bawku township and discharged firearms indiscriminately, leading to casualties.
“We have not been able to verify the number of people that are injured. After the military fired, some of the people have dispersed, and some of them are still there protesting and the injured have been taken to the Vineyard Hospital,” one resident told Citi News in an interview.
The reported incident states that unknown gunmen fired into a group of people at the community centre on Wednesday, leading to the death of two individuals, with four others sustaining injuries.
Women in Bawku demand justice for three persons allegedly killed by the military on Thursday night.
Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, has appealed to residents in Bawku to remain calm following recent shootings.
During an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show, he stressed that the situation is currently under investigation, and the findings will be communicated appropriately.
This follows a report by Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, who stated that three additional individuals were killed the previous night, bringing the death toll to 5 within the past 48 hours.
Mr Ayariga claimed they were shot by soldiers who alleged the discovery of firearms on them around 8 pm on Thursday. The situation has heightened tensions in Bawku, and authorities are working to address the concerns and maintain stability in the region.
“Unfortunately, we even had additional killings last night…they hit the three of them mercilessly. The assemblyman tried to intervene, but they refused to listen and they beat these boys and finally shot the three of them,” the MP alleged.
Mr. Yakubu, speaking on JoyNews, appealed to the people of Bawku to remain patient while awaiting the results of the investigation.
“It is very unfortunate that it has happened. My condolences to the family and those who have lost their loved ones. It is not easy for someone to lose his or her loved one, but what I am saying is that as politicians, we should be very careful what comes out of our mouths so it does not tear this problem to the highest level. That is all I am saying,” he said on Friday, January 19, 2024.
The Regional Minister explained that, according to the military, the young men were allegedly caught with AK47 guns, which resulted in a gun battle. He further mentioned that his office is working diligently, collaborating with stakeholders, to restore peace in the area.
“The way he [Mahama Ayaria] is talking will not bring pece to Bawuku. So we are doing our utmost best to bring peace to Bawku.”
Speaking on the same show, the MP for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, presented a contrasting account, asserting that the military apprehended young men who were peacefully conversing.
According to him, one of the four managed to escape, while the remaining three were subjected to brutality and subsequently shot by the military.
He mentioned that the assemblyman attempted to intervene during the beating but was unsuccessful. Mr. Ayariga stated that he reached out to top military officers to seek clarification on the situation.
“I confronted senior members of the military about the incidence early this morning, and their reason was that they found weapons with them. I said, but you apprehended them. Even if you found a weapon with them when you apprehended them, you should arrest them, take them to the police station, and lock them up. That is where you keep them.”
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has reported three additional fatalities in Bawku. The legislator conveyed this information during an appearance on JoyNews’ AM Show.
This development raises the death toll to 5 within the past 48 hours.
Ayariga mentioned that the individuals were shot by soldiers who alleged the discovery of firearms on them around 8 pm on Thursday. The situation in Bawku appears to be escalating, with the recent incidents of violence contributing to the rising number of casualties.
“Unfortunately, we even had additional killings last night…they hit the three of them mercilessly. The assemblyman tried to intervene, but they refused to listen and they beat these boys and finally shot the three of them.”
He added that another individual who was present with the deceased individuals before the shooting managed to escape the incident.
“I am so scandalised by what the soldiers have done, and the youth are grieving. This is very dastardly,” he added.
The Ghana Armed Forces have not yet issued a public response to the matter. Meanwhile, Upper East Regional Minister Stephen Yakubu has urged residents in Bawku to remain calm amid the reported incidents.
The situation remains tense, awaiting official statements and interventions to address the concerns raised by the Member of Parliament and ensure stability in the region.
“My condolences to the family and those who have lost their loved ones. It is not easy for someone to lose his or her loved one, but what I am saying is that as politicians, we should be very careful what comes out of our mouth so it does not tear this problem to the highest level,” Mr Ayariga added.
On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, unidentified gunmen launched an attack, resulting in the killing of two individuals in the Upper East Regional town.
According to reports, the shooting took place around noon when unknown gunmen targeted tricycle operators near the Bawku Community Centre.
Six people were shot during this incident, with one person succumbing to injuries on the spot, and another passing away the following morning while receiving treatment. The situation has heightened tensions in the region, demanding swift action and resolution to address the security concerns.
A group of women in the Bawku township staged a protest on Friday, January 19, 2024, accusing military personnel of brutality against residents.
In a video, hundreds of women were observed chanting, “We don’t need them [the military], we want them out.”
The protest was triggered by reported incidents on Thursday evening, where soldiers allegedly entered the Bawku township and discharged firearms indiscriminately, leading to casualties.
“We have not been able to verify the number of people that are injured. After the military fired, some of the people have dispersed, and some of them are still there protesting and the injured have been taken to the Vineyard Hospital,” one resident told Citi News in an interview.
It was reported that unknown gunmen fired into a group of people at the community centre on Wednesday, resulting in the death of two persons, while four others were injured.
Another sporadic shooting in Bawku, Upper East region, has claimed the life of an individual and left five others injured.
The unfortunate incident occurred around Zongo near the Bawku Police Station at 12:30 pm on Wednesday, according to police sources.
The motive behind the recent shooting remains unclear but the Police are investigating the matter to bring the perpetrators to book.
The deceased has been identified as 60-year-old Musah Seidu, who suffered a fatal chest injury from gunfire. Among those injured are Firdaus Abdulai (17), Sumaila Munira (38), Amidu Bugri (40), Bukari Seidu (50), and Kamal Sadat (19).
Firdaus and Munira are currently receiving medical attention at the Vineyard Hospital, while the remaining three are being treated at the Presbyterian Hospital.
Meanwhile, Musah’s remains have been released to the family and laid to rest per Islamic traditions. Security in the area has also been heightened following the recent attack which has caused widespread fear.
This is the first attack in Bawku reported to the media this year. In November 2023, two people were shot dead. Abdul Rahman Razak, 43 and Haruna Iddrisu, 31, the bus driver and bus conductor respectively, were pronounced dead upon arrival at the Presbyterian Hospital in Bawku.
In April of that same year, an immigration officer was shot dead. Two other colleagues sustained injuries. The three immigration officers were driving from Bawku to Missiga when their vehicle was shot at by unknown gunmen, resulting in the death of 42-year-old Philip Motey.
The insecurity in Bawku continues to worsen despite the tightening of security by the deployment of police officers to the area.
Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged opposing factions in the Bawku conflict to reconsider their stances and prioritize peace. His plea is aimed at restoring the free movement of people and fostering development in the area.
He emphasized that the prolonged conflict could result in widespread poverty, setbacks in infrastructure and human development, as well as increased instances of diseases and hunger among the population.
Therefore, it is crucial for all parties involved in the conflict to engage in introspection, seeking peaceful and amicable resolutions to their internal issues. This approach is essential to instill hope in the younger generations.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu made the call in an address read for him by Oguahyia Oduro Panin Birikorang, Chief of Edubiase in the Ashanti Region, during the annual Quran recitation and Islamic prayers for the nation in Kumasi.
The Asantehene reminded Ghanaians about the impending political campaigns and called for tolerance of divergent views.
He said it was important for politicians to refrain from engaging in tribal or religious politics and rather, focus on disseminating messages that would help transform the country and give hope to the people.
The Asantehene pointed out that political intolerance had been the cause of conflicts, poverty, destruction and loss of lives in many African countries, saying, Ghana was not ready to veer into that direction.
He appealed to the youth in Zongo communities not to yield to political orchestrations that would force them to commit violence during the electioneering campaigns, adding that, having two people from the north to lead the two biggest political parties in the 2024 general elections, was a testimony of how young people from the northern part of the country could rise to lead and transform Ghana.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu appealed to the people in Zongo communities to take advantage of the Otumfuo Educational Trust Fund to climb higher in their educational pursuits.
He also urged the chiefs and elders in Zongo communities to work to protect children and the youth from the activities of politicians who only use and dumb them after elections.
Mr Mohammed Kabir Abubakar of Al – Azariya Islamic Institute was adjudged the best memorizer of the three-week Tahfiz contest, and was awarded with a brand new Picato Rio saloon car donated by Mr Ali Suraj, a presidential staffer.
In attendance were Sheikh Nuhu Sharubutu, National Chief Imam, Alhaji Dr Abubakar Shehu Abubakar III, Amir of Gombe state in Nigeria, Alhaji Musah Akambonga, President of the Council of Zongo Chiefs, and Alhaji Ibrahim Abdul Rahman Adam Sanfo lll, the Mosque Chief, amongst others.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on the government to prioritize addressing the crisis in Bawku.
Mr Ablakwa emphasized the urgent need for a solution to end the violence in the area, expressing concern that the continued conflict could create opportunities for terrorists to infiltrate the country.
He highlighted the unacceptable loss of lives resulting from the longstanding problem in Bawku and stressed the necessity of taking immediate action to resolve the crisis.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, he said, “We have to find a solution. We forget that too many people are dying in this country and it’s become like the forgotten area. People are being killed in silence and we don’t even remember them. I’m deeply worried about that.”
He voiced his concern that with the approaching election period, tensions in Bawku could intensify, potentially escalating the situation further.
“And going into the elections, and you know it’s close to the border and what is happening in the sub-region, terrorists on the loose, you know Burkina Faso about 70% is controlled by the terrorists.
“It’s such a toxic and volatile situation that if we don’t address that, that can become the avenue for destabilizing the entire country so I’m concerned about that,” he said.
Former Central Region Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, Allotey Jacobs, has commended Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, over his visit to the Paramount Chief of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II.
The Vice President’s visit was in efforts to call for peace in Bawku, following years of instability.
Speaking in an interview on Peace FM’s morning show, Kokrokoo, Mr Jacobs expressed his admiration for Dr Bawumia’s move, stating that the Vice President exhibited boldness by going to Bawku.
“It shows that courage and [it tells the people of Bawku] that look, I’m part of you and that’s why he was well received by the Bawku Naaba. And what he has done shows that he is the rising star from the Northern Region,” Mr Jacobs said.
Additionally, he mentioned that given the consequences of such conflicts which include the loss of life, loss of property, etc., Dr Bawumia’s visit aimed at ending the conflict in the area is a step in the right direction.
“[The North] is also our food basket so when little trouble comes there it has its own implications. So from now, I will call the Vice President ‘The Star of the North.”
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, paid a courtesy call on the Bawku Naaba. During his visit, he called for an end to the instability that has plagued Bawku, as a means to address the ongoing conflict.
He stressed the destructive impact of the conflict on the community and urged the Mamprusis and Kusasis to cease violence and seek peaceful resolution through the constitutional process.
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has condemned the recent murder of two persons in Bawku in the Upper East Region.
It is reported that a blue-white Youtang Buss was attacked on Monday morning around 5:30 am in front of the veterinary services office in Bawku.
The driver, Razak Abdul Rahman, 43, was reportedly shot which led to the car crashing against a tree. The car was later set ablaze after the security left the scene of the attack.
The driver and his ‘mate’, Haruna Idrisu, 31, were killed during the attack, but 26-year-old Albert Nimora who was also on board the bus did not sustain any injuries.
Mr Ayariga, in reaction condemned the attack on their lives and “equally condemned the infliction of gunshot wounds on the persons of Musah Salifu (aged 50 years) and Majed Moryure (23 years).”
In a press release on Monday, November 27, the Bawku Central MP noted that “this action which has the tendency to derail the improving security situation in Bawku.”
He used the opportunity to commiserate with the bereaved families and the injured victims.
“My condolences go to the bereaved families. I also wish the injured a speedy recovery. The security agencies are urged to maintain their vigilance in the municipality,” he added.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has criticised theGhana Armed Forces for their failure to provide him with information regarding the killing of innocent civilians in Bawku.
Despite an order by the Commission of Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the MP stated that the military has not supplied him with the requested information.
As a result, he urged the commission to establish a deadline for the Ghana Armed Forces to provide the required information.
“l have seen copies of letters your office wrote to the Ghana Armed Forces to respond to my complaints. Since then, I have not heard anything in relation to the matter. I will not accept any attempt by the military to avoid accountability for the killings of innocent people in Bawku.
“Therefore, demand that you give the military a deadline to respond to your inquiries,” part of a letter the MP wrote to CHRAJ.
He also urged the commission to visit Zoogin, a community in Bawku, to get evidence of the crime committed by the army there.
“I also expected that CHRAJ would have visited the community to speak to victims to gather evidence of whatever the Ghana Armed Forces would say in their response but this has not happened.
“Please rest assured that the people of the Zoogin community will continue to demand justice for those who were unjustly killed by members of the Ghana Armed Forces in their community,” he added.
GhanaWeb also sighted correspondence between the army and CHRAJ, where the military was told to comment on a request by Mahama Ayariga.
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has called on the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to expedite its probing into the alleged military brutality against Bawku residents.
In a letter to CHRAJ dated November 6, Mr Ayariga demanded that the Commission provide the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) a deadline to present its information on the matter to speed up investigation.
According to the MP, he has noted the delay in the GAF’s response after his complaint on June 14, 2023.
“I have seen copies of letters your office wrote to the Ghana Armed Forces to respond to my complaints. Since then, I have not heard anything in relation to the matter.”
“I therefore demand that you give the military a deadline to respond to your inquiries. I also expected that CHRAJ would have visited the community to speak to victims to gather evidence beyond whatever the Ghana Armed Forces would say in their response but this has not happened.”
Mr Ayariga stressed that he “will not accept any attempt by the military to avoid accountability for the killings of innocent people in Bawku.”
He assured that the people of the Zoogin community will continue to demand justice for those who “were unjustly killed by members of the Ghana Armed Forces in their community.”
Early this year, nine individuals were shot and killed by the military in separate attacks at different locations within the Bawku Municipality.
The tragic incident happened after the military allegedly accused civilians of deliberately defying curfew hours to engage in shootouts.
On January 26, this year, civilians; namely, Dauda, 50, and Sally, 59, both residents of Patelmi, in the Bawku Municipality, were allegedly subjected to severe torture and shot dead by the men in uniform after being accused of flouting curfew rules and regulations.
Again, on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at about 1 pm, eight other civilians were shot and killed by the military at the Songuri and Zougin communities.
The deceased have been identified as Issah Kasim, Madi Mamudu, Mumuni Ndego, Issifu Karim, Eliasu Ayuma, Gafaru Sumaila, Kudus Haruna and Sumaila Adamu.
Five others died as a result of sporadic gunshot attacks, as civilians went ‘neck-to-neck’ with the security over the latter’s alleged brutalities.
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has asserted that some seven (7) residents of the communities of Bador and Tampizua in Bawku Municipality have been arrested by the military authorities in Burkina Faso.
In a letter to the Foreign Affairs Ministry dated October 30, he noted that efforts to locate them have proven futile.
He has therefore entreated the ministry to help locate such individuals and secure their return into the country.
The identities of the said arrested Bawku residents are as follows: Abdulai Bagare, Mumuni Seidu, Issaka Nyikabo, Abdu_Kadir Salifu, Jebrilu Braimah, Bande Mamudu, and Bande Shaibu.
These individuals, he said, crossed over into Burkina Faso on Friday, October 13, 2023, to Bittou District in Burkina Faso with the assistance of the Assembly Member for Kanyere a suburb of Mogande also in Bittu District in Burkina Faso, Adamah Bidigah.
Background of how the individuals were arrested per Mr Mahama Ayariga’s letter
Fulani herdsmen grazed cattle belonging to the missing persons in a village called Kanyere in the Bittu District on the Burkina Faso side of the border between Bawku in Ghana and Burkina Faso. Military men came to the area and fired warning shots and the Fulani men run away and left the cattle. Two Fulani men are reported to have died in the incident. The Burkina Faso military drove the cattle to Bittu District capital (Bittu).
Subsequently, announcements were made that the owners of the cattle should come and identify them so they will hand the cattle back to them. The Assembly Man for Kanyere, Adamah Bidigah, conveyed the message of the announcement across to the Ghana side. The missing persons took a letter of introduction from the Municipal Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality and took along to Bittu to claim the animals.
The Assembly Member for Kanyere directed them to the location of the animals. The location was identified as Nohow, a village also in the Bittu District.
The missing persons set off to the said location with the aim of identifying their cattle for retrieval. They were last seen standing with Burkina Faso military personnel on the road to Noaho village. Other claimants of cattle headed to Noaho have said they saw them standing with the Burkina Faso military personnel under circumstances that appeared as if they were being interrogated by the military personnel but everyone was afraid to interfere so they all passed them by.
According to Mr Ayariga, he has asked senior Ghanaian military personnel to look into the matter but all efforts have yielded no results.
“I have tried using former Burkina Faso Members of Parliament in the ECOWAS Parliament where I served with them and there has not been any positive results.
“I therefore request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to activate the diplomatic channels with the military authorities in Burkina Faso to locate and return the missing persons,” the letter added.
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration to help rescue some seven (7) residents of the communities of Bador and Tampizua in Bawku Municipality who have been arrested by the military authorities in Burkina Faso.
In a letter to the Foreign Affairs Ministry dated October 30, he noted that efforts to locate them have proven futile.
The identities of the said arrested Bawku residents are as follows: Abdulai Bagare, Mumuni Seidu, Issaka Nyikabo, Abdu_Kadir Salifu, Jebrilu Braimah, Bande Mamudu, and Bande Shaibu.
These individuals, he said, crossed over into Burkina Faso on Friday, October 13, 2023, to Bittou District in Burkina Faso with the assistance of the Assembly Member for Kanyere a suburb of Mogande also in Bittu District in Burkina Faso, Adamah Bidigah.
Background of how the individuals were arrested per Mr Mahama Ayariga’s letter
Fulani herdsmen grazed cattle belonging to the missing persons in a village called Kanyere in the Bittu District on the Burkina Faso side of the border between Bawku in Ghana and Burkina Faso. Military men came to the area and fired warning shots and the Fulani men run away and left the cattle. Two Fulani men are reported to have died in the incident. The Burkina Faso military drove the cattle to Bittu District capital (Bittu).
Subsequently, announcements were made that the owners of the cattle should come and identify them so they will hand the cattle back to them. The Assembly Man for Kanyere, Adamah Bidigah, conveyed the message of the announcement across to the Ghana side. The missing persons took a letter of introduction from the Municipal Chief Executive of Bawku Municipality and took along to Bittu to claim the animals.
The Assembly Member for Kanyere directed them to the location of the animals. The location was identified as Nohow, a village also in the Bittu District.
The missing persons set off to the said location with the aim of identifying their cattle for retrieval. They were last seen standing with Burkina Faso military personnel on the road to Noaho village. Other claimants of cattle headed to Noaho have said they saw them standing with the Burkina Faso military personnel under circumstances that appeared as if they were being interrogated by the military personnel but everyone was afraid to interfere so they all passed them by.
According to Mr Ayariga, he has asked senior Ghanaian military personnel to look into the matter but all efforts have yielded no results.
“I have tried using former Burkina Faso Members of Parliament in the ECOWAS Parliament where I served with them and there has not been any positive results.
“I therefore request the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to activate the diplomatic channels with the military authorities in Burkina Faso to locate and return the missing persons,” the letter added.
Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), Nana Akomea, has offered advice to the Electoral Commission (EC), suggesting that they should not entirely dismiss the possibility of conducting the limited voters’ registration exercise in Bawku.
The NPP member has emphasized that there is still potential for peace to be restored in the community. Therefore, the EC should remain prepared to proceed with the registration if the security situation improves.
“It is never too late to secure peace so if some provision has to be made for a few extra days [it must be done],” he said.
“Because you don’t want to go and force something through and it will create security problems, then you would have regretted.”
He made these remarks during an appearance on Newsfile on Saturday, September 30, 2023.
“Let’s urge all the parties to come to an agreement particularly because of the volatile security situation.”
His remarks come in light of the Electoral Commission (EC) suspending the limited voter registration exercise due to escalating tensions in the area.
Reports suggest that this suspension stems from disputes between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Williams Obeng Darkwa, the Upper East Regional Director of the Commission, has confirmed this incident to JoyNews. However, he attributed the suspension to security concerns and refrained from elaborating on the specific issues.
Deputy EC Chairman Eric Asare Bossman has indicated that no alternative solution is available at the moment. He emphasized that their current priority is safeguarding the lives of EC officials.
Tension is escalating in Bawku as the Electoral Commission (EC) has been compelled to halt the limited voter registration process. According to reports, this suspension stems from disputes between the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
The Upper East Regional Director of the Commission, Williams Obeng Darkwa, is said to have confirmed the incident to JoyNews. He attributed the decision to security concerns but refrained from elaborating on the specifics of the situation.
“On point of service, we had little misunderstanding among active political players and therefore in the name of peace, we thought it was unsafe for our personnel and equipment to be exposed. Therefore, we had to put it on hold,” he told JoyNews.
He mentioned that although the situation in the area has now calmed down, they are still awaiting approval from their superiors in Accra to proceed with the voter registration process.
When questioned if the dispute had spread to other communities, Mr. Obeng Darkwa responded in the negative.
“All other communities are smoothly registering people. It is only in the Bawku community that we had a little hiccup but it has resolved and we are waiting for a signal from Accra,” he added.
As reported, the NDC and the NPP have currently reached a consensus on a roadmap that will facilitate the resumption of voter registration by the EC.
This agreement has been formulated, and both parties have expressed their initial agreement. The EC is presently awaiting the signatures of party representatives to formalize the agreement.
The Microfinance and Small Loans Center (MASLOC) has stated that the district’s security condition is to blame for the closure of the MASLOC officer in Bawku.
In a statement issued in response to what it calls false information spreading on various social media platforms and websites, MASLOC denied any attempt was being made to deprive the public of its services by temporarily closing the Bawku District office.
The institution claims that the issues in circulation have certain errors and do not accurately reflect all the information.
“The institution would like to inform the general public and its stakeholders that the primary reason for its decision to temporally close its zonal offices in Bawku was due to the insecurities at Bawku which made the office non-functional,” MASLOC explained.
Approximately 200 individuals have lost their lives in the ongoing Bawku conflict spanning from November 2021 to August 2023, as revealed by Amadu Hamza, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) overseeing the region.
During an interview with the media on Monday, August 14, 2023, the MCE emphasized that while official records of casualties attributed to the conflict involving the police might be considerably lower, the actual situation on the ground far surpasses the figures reported by the police.
“Many have died and their bodies were never given to the police,” he said.
Discussing a recent incident where a shooting resulted in the demise of one person and left three others injured, the MCE pointed out that the conflict persists, claiming lives consistently, especially in areas that pose challenges for police accessibility.
Bawku has been grappling with chieftaincy disputes for an extended period, resulting in the unfortunate loss of numerous lives and significant destruction of property.
The Member of Parliament representing Bawku Central and a prominent figure within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has commended the regional organization’s decision to deploy its standby force for the purpose of restoring constitutional order in Niger.
Ayariga emphasized the significance of pursuing a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Niger, while also underlining the importance of showcasing ECOWAS’ military capabilities.
He noted that the military junta in Niger has shown reluctance to engage in dialogue since the coup on July 27, making it imperative for ECOWAS to assert its military strength as a means of reinforcing its diplomatic efforts.
“While we are firmly of the belief that diplomatic channels should ultimately prevail, it is crucial that the military option remains a viable consideration. The parties involved in Niger must grasp that ECOWAS possesses the capacity to enforce its decisions. Without this demonstration of capability, the efficacy of diplomatic avenues could be compromised. Thus, it is unsurprising that ECOWAS is preparing to exhibit its strength to the Nigerien junta, highlighting its ability to effectively enforce its directives.”
Ayariga emphasized that although dialogue remains the ultimate path to resolution, such discussions cannot progress without the Nigerien junta recognizing ECOWAS’ capacity.
In addition to his comments on the crisis, the Bawku Central representative urged the sub-region to collectively determine the core values it wishes to uphold throughout its developmental journey.
Ayariga emphasized that if principles like the rule of law and democracy hold significant importance, then all member states must be willing to make the necessary sacrifices to uphold these values, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
“In our capacity as a sub-region, it is imperative that we establish a clear stance on the values that hold the utmost significance for us. If upholding the rule of law and democracy stands as a cornerstone, then we must collectively be prepared to face any obstacles in safeguarding these principles. No cost should be considered too high when it comes to preserving the integrity of these cherished values.”
Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Isaac Adongo, has asserted that the Bank of Ghana (BoG) printed an amount surpassing the GH¢44 billion recently disclosed as the government’s budget financing.
During a Good Morning Ghana interview on Monday, February 13, 2023, the MP stated that the figure mentioned by the BoG does not account for the additional money printed for the government in 2021.
According to him, the central bank has printed nearly GH¢80 billion to fund the budget of the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo government.
“The situation is even worse than the GH¢44 billion, you know why. They use this method of securitisation. What they do is that at the end of the year instead of doing an overdraft that will be accumulating, they will violate the law by not repaying the money but rather transform it into a loan that will sit on the books in the name of the government.
“We end 2021 will GH¢35 billion of central bank lending, so that is already sitting on the books of Bank of Ghana as total exposure to government at the end of 2021.
“Then they start from zero in 2022 and it was GH¢44 billion at the end of the year. That one too will now be scrutinised to add to the GH¢35 that is already sitting there and it will now be almost GH¢80 billion that the government has borrowed from the Bank of Ghana,” he said.
Isaac Adongo highlighted that despite the government injecting more money into the system, the economy is not improving due to the alleged embezzlement of funds by government officials.
His remarks were in response to the central bank’s justification for printing over GH¢44 billion to finance the government’s 2022 budget, which exceeds the required threshold and necessitates parliamentary approval.
The Bank of Ghana (BoG) claimed it had no choice but to support the government as its access to the International Capital Market was closed, and the domestic market was also facing challenges.
In a statement issued on Thursday, February 9, 2023, the central bank stated that its actions were not in violation, as the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2018, which had been suspended by the Ghanaian Parliament, had not been reinstated.
The BoG’s statement came after facing heavy criticism from some Ghanaians following a Bloomberg report indicating that it printed GH¢41.9 billion for the government in 2022.
Broadcaster Dr. Randy Abbey, in response to the Bloomberg report, expressed concern over the BoG’s conduct, stating that as the regulator of the country’s financial sector, it appears to be disregarding all the rules within the sector.
“The level of seeming recklessness and lawlessness, and irresponsibility when it comes to the operation of the central bank and the lack of transparency is getting worrying,” he said.
A group of concerned natives from Bawku, situated in the Upper East region, has submitted a petition to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
The petition urges these authorities to arrange escorts for vehicles entering and leaving the Bawku township.
The primary objective behind this request, as perceived by the concerned natives, is to prevent ambush attacks and ensure the safety of all citizens traveling to and from Bawku, regardless of their destination.
In a statement dated July 24, 2023, the group, which also copied the message to various institutions, expressed their dismay at the Upper East Regional Security Council’s consistent negligence in providing escorts for travelers in the area.
They believe this neglect has contributed to the prolonged conflict since November 2021, as ambush killings have intensified the situation.
The statement was signed by Martin Azare and Amadu Mogtar.
The conflict in Bawku stems from a chieftaincy dispute and has garnered significant media attention. Tragically, the unrest has resulted in numerous fatalities and substantial property damage.
The concerned natives argue that living in fear is unacceptable in a country governed by the rule of law. They emphasize the urgency of addressing this issue and question how much longer they must endure in silence while their leaders fail to act.
The group asserts that providing security escorts to Bawku and its surrounding areas is not only a strategic intelligence move but also a morally responsible action.
It is a critical step towards curbing gun violence and safeguarding Ghana’s borders from potential terrorist attacks and the influx of small arms and light weapons.
“Providing security escorts to Bawku and its environs is not only a smart intelligence move and a moral thing to do but a strong measure to reduce gun violence and safeguard Ghana’s borders from potential terrorist attacks and inflow of small arms and light weapons,” they added.
Attached below is a copy of the Petition
PETITION TO THE INSPECTOR GENERAL OF POLICE AND THE UPPER EAST REGIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL (REGSEC) TO PROVIDE ESCORTS FOR VEHICLES ENTERING AND LEAVING THE BAWKU TOWNSHIP
We write to you in exercise of our rights as law abiding citizens of Ghana and with reference to your mandate to uphold and protect the lives and property of citizens and maintain law and order in the Upper East Region.
Whiles we appreciate the efforts the Police, the Military and the REGSEC are putting in place to maintain law and order amidst the various challenges, we wish to demand that you make good your legal and moral obligation to ensure the safety and security of all citizens travelling into and out of Bawku from all locations and all walks of life.
Between November 2021 to July 2023, the Bawku Municipality has recorded over 30 ambush attacks and road blockades on private and commercial vehicles leading to the loss of lives. Details in appendix 1 attached.
Despite these, the Upper East REGSEC has not seen the need to provide a planned scheduled SECURITY ESCORT in and out of Bawku-Pulimakom, Bawku-Bolga and Nalerigu-Gambaga-Bawku route, an in-action that has sadly emboldened criminals to continue to attack and kill innocent citizens and state security officials.
In a sharp contrast however, when three cases of armed robbery/attacks on travelers were recorded in January 2023 along the Bolgatanga – Tamale Highway, the North East REGSEC moved swiftly to collaborate with their Upper East Regional counterparts to provide security on vehicles on the road to avert similar attacks. Suffice it to note, no lives were lost as compared to the uncountable deaths on the Bawku incidence!
The consistent neglect by the Upper East Regional Security Council to provide escorts for travelers entering into and from the Bawku Township is sadly one of the reasons why the recent conflict has protracted since November 2021 as ambush killing re-escalate the conflict.
As a country of rule of law, it is unacceptable for citizens to live in fear and for how long can we sit in silence to witness these inactions from our leaders. Providing security escorts to Bawku and its environs is not only a smart intelligence move and a moral thing to do but a strong measure to reduce gun violence and safeguard Ghana’s borders from potential terrorist attacks and inflow of small arms and light weapons. Every life matters because it could be you or me!
We the undersigned therefore respectfully demand that the Ministry of Interior, the Upper East REGSEC and the Peace Council immediately within the space of a week upon receipt of this petition by Monday, 31st July 2023 provide a well-planned escort schedule with security visibility at vantage points on all routes for all citizen entering and leaving the Bawku areas from North East, Bolgatanga, Burkina Faso and Togo. OR we will explore other legal and lawful means to drum in our request. Also find attached the list of some of the fatal attacks on the respective routes in appendix 1.
As the deadly anthrax plague continues to wreak havoc in theUpper Eastregion, Bonaventure Chiru, the district director of the Veterinary Service in Bawku, has bemoaned the lack of vaccines to combat the disease.
The disease which was confirmed in the region has adversely affected livestock farming and consumption.
Speaking to the media, the District Director said although they are doing their best to contain the spread of the disease, the short supply of the vaccines is worrying.
“We are considering vaccinating all the animals within the outbreak areas. If we vaccinate all the animals even those that are incubating the materials will show signs and we can treat them or they will die and those that are not exposed, or incubating will develop the immunity and spread will be contained.
“The biggest challenge now is the vaccine, who is buying the vaccine is the problem. Because they have already declared that, that is going to be free. So the farmers are waiting for the free vaccines and the vaccines to are not coming, so that is our biggest challenge now.”
The District Director also cautioned residents in the outbreak areas to avoid consuming meat of livestock to avoid contracting the anthrax disease.
On June 1, 2023, the Upper East Regional Health Directorate confirmed that one person has died of suspected anthrax in the Binduri Districtof the Upper East Region after eating the carcass of an anthrax-infected dead cow.
According to the Regional Health Directorate, four cows died of anthrax in one of the suburbs of Binduri (name withheld).
In a press release, the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Emmanuel Dzotse, said that his team has begun contact tracing of eleven people who are believed to have eaten the carcasses of the anthrax-infected cows.
“On June 1, 2023, the Regional Health Directorate received notification of two (2) suspected cases of anthrax with one death in Binduri District following the consumption of dead cattle. In all, four cattle have died in the affected community. So far eleven (11) suspected cases have been identified, and contact tracing efforts are underway in the affected community,” Dr. Dzotse said.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has revealed that he has sent an invitation to the conflicting parties involved in the Bawku conflict, in order to facilitate a lasting resolution to the dispute.
The protracted conflict has resulted in the loss of many lives and property in Bawku and nearby communities.
Speaking at the Manhyia Palace during a courtesy call paid on him by the Chieftaincy Minister, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, the Asantehene expressed optimism about helping to resolve the recurring conflict in the area.
“I have so far started engaging all the feuding factions in relation to the Bawku conflict. I have also been listening to all the parties as part of the process to get the matter resolved. I’ve also been speaking to key stakeholders involved, and they have furnished me with the necessary documentation.
“So once we keep interrogating all parties involved, we will be able to bring finality to the issue. I’ve asked all of them to approach this issue with the highest form of honesty to help us resolve the issue and that they should stop using weapons. I’ll invite you [Chieftaincy Minister] during the next meeting with them.”
On his part, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng commended the Asantehene’s intervention.
“As a government, we are happy that Otumfuo has taken over the conflict in Bawku and the president has given the green light and I have also been supportive. Some of the meetings he calls, we leave it to him because he has the wisdom and the knowledge and understanding and capacity to bring the warring faction together.”
The Upper East Regional Coordinating Council has expanded the existing one-month ban on the movement of cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, and related products to cover the entire region.
This decision was made in response to an anthrax outbreak that has affected certain parts of the region.
Similarly, the ban on the slaughtering, sale, and consumption of meat and meat products derived from the aforementioned animals has been enforced throughout the entire region.
To combat the outbreak, the vaccination of animals against anthrax has also been expanded to cover the entire region. The Upper East Regional Coordinating Council has stated that this vaccination service will be provided free of charge.
The action follows the outbreak of anthrax in Binduri, Bawku West, Talensi, and BolgatangaMunicipality.
As of Friday, 2nd June 2023, 7 cattle and 23 sheep and goats were confirmed dead in the Bansi and Sapeliga communities.
As of June 5, 2023, 13 suspected human anthrax cases, including one death, have been reported from Bansi Community.
Eleven (11) human samples have been sent to the Pong-Tamale Veterinary Laboratory and are awaiting laboratory results.
The Head of the “Bissa Tribe” otherwise known as “Busanga” in the Ashanti Region, Osman Suallah Tanko, has advised the people of Bawku to give peace a chance for once to accelerate development in the area.
He said the only way to accelerate development of the town by attracting investors to the area was to ensure absolute peace in Bawku and its environs.
Speaking at the 45th anniversary on his enskinment as the Head of the Bissa community in Ashanti region, Alhaji Tanko said the protracted ethic misunderstanding in Bawku was retarding development in the area.
He said it was about time the people lived in harmony, buried their differences and gave lasting peace a chance as one people with a common destiny.
He applauded the Bissa community in the Ashanti region for the peaceful co-existence existing between them and other tribes and urged them to stay away from violence and other social vices that could potentially disturb the peace in their localities.
Alhaji Tanko recounted numerous achievements over the years under his leadership, prominent among them was the formation of “Zuleka,” an initiative that promotes peace.
He also spoke about the support given to many young people to further their education, saying that it was the way to build the human resource base of the country.
Four officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) have been honored with promotions in recognition of their courage and selfishness during a rescue operation.
The officers exhibited exceptional bravery while attempting to save three fellow colleagues who had been targeted by unidentified assailants in Bawku on April 3rd of this year.
The three officers whose car came under fire from unknown gunmen on their way to buy food were 30-year-old Assistant Inspector Eric Ayidiya, stationed at the Polimakom border post, and 42-year-old Inspector Lawrence Afari, stationed at Kulungugu post, both of whom got injured and received treatment at the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital.
A third officer, 42-year-old Inspector Philip Motey, died from injuries sustained during the attack. He was laid to rest last Saturday.
The officers who rescued their colleagues: Chief Superintendent (C/Supt.) Michael Brewu Ampofoh was promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Immigration.
Assistant Inspector Harris Quartey was promoted to the rank of Inspector; Immigration Control Officer (ICO) Wisdom Elorm Addo was promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector, whilst Assistant Immigration Control Officer Grade II Emmanuel Forson was promoted to the rank of Assistant Immigration Control Officer Grade I.
All four officers also received citations, certificates and plaques, recognising their work.
The Controller-General of Immigration, Kwame Asuah Takyi, in an address, said on the evening of April 3, 2023 at about 19:51 hours, Chief Superintendent Michal Brewu Ampofoh, received a distress call from one Assistant Inspector Eric Afari who informed the Bawku Command of the attack by the unknown gunmen who fired several shots at their vehicle, killing Inspector Phillip Motey and injuring two others.
Mr Takyi commended Chief Superintendent Ampofoand the three others for their swift response despite the perilous situation.
“Quickly, Chief Supt. Ampofoh and team of other three officers rushed to the scene while keeping touch with Assistant Inspector Laurence Afari through his phone, receiving directions and reassuring them that help was coming until the team got there… while it shocked me as well as many others how the immigration response team got there faster in spite of the danger on their way,” he said.
He encouraged other officers to follow the example of the four by not turning their backs on fellow colleagues when their assistance was needed especially, in volatile areas of duty such as Bawku.
“All security personnel should hold and teach that we must not turn our backs on our colleagues in any way or form when our help is most needed. I say this because we all know about the situation in the Bawku area and the danger that the conflict poses to security officials and residents as a whole,” he said.
On her part, Mrs. Adelaide Anno-Kumi, the Chief Director at the Ministry of Interior, in an address, on behalf of the Minister, Ambrose Dery, commended the immigration service for recognising the heroic move by the four officers as stipulated in regulation 171D (2016) L.I. 2245 of the Ghana Immigration Service.
Madam Anno-Kumi hinted that Government via the Ministry of Interior recognised threats faced by immigration service officers who worked around the clock to ensure that the country’s borders were safe and protected against all forms of cross border crimes.
She added that government would continue to retool the service to execute its mandate as expected.
The newly promoted Michael Brewu Ampofoh at a media interview said though he was pleased with the recognition for his hard work, he saw this award and promotion as an extra duty which required more efforts and commitment.
“… day in day out when we are promoted from one rank to the other it is an additional responsibility which is a paradigm shift in your behaviour, your operations, your attitudes towards work, how you respond to such calls,” he said.
Over 500 soldiersto be deployed to Bawku in the Upper East Region to assist with the region’s growing instability.
The decision to deploy armed men was taken after a delegation, comprising National Security Coordinator, Edward Asomani; Major General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, Chief of the Army Staff, and other heads of state security and intelligence agencies paid a working visit to the area.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Bawku, Amadu Hamza, in an interview with Citi News, the mandate of the task force will also help deal with the influx of Burkinabes entering the country as a result of the insurgency in that country.
The deployment follows the death of one immigration officer in Bawku on April 3. The motive for the attack remains unclear; there have been no claims of responsibility yet.
Bawku has since the beginning of the year experienced turbulent insecurity following renewed chieftaincy disputes.
According to government, the state of confusion in Bawku can also be attributed to criminal activities.
A reassessment of the curfew imposed on Bawku Municipality inhabitants is being requested by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
The curfew should be adjusted from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. to 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. with immediate effect, REGSEC has suggested.
Following a critical evaluation of the circumstance in Bawku, the REGSEC made the recommendation at its meeting on Friday, April 28.
A statement by the Office of the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council said, “The Regional Security Council (REGSEC) at its meeting on Friday, 28th April 2023 reviewed the general security situation of the region and upon a critical assessment of the situation in Bawku, it recommended that the curfew hours imposed on the Bawku Municipality be reviewed from 10 pm – 4 am to 6 pm – 6 am with immediate effect”.
REGSEC expressed hope that its views will help to temporarily help manage the security situation in the area.
“This in our candid view would temporarily help manage the security situation in the area. Please accept our assurance of the highest esteem in this regard,” REGSEC stated.
The protracted chieftaincy dispute in Bawku has left scores of people dead and others sustaining injuries.
About 10 people were reported dead in recent disturbances.
The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, during a working visit at the Bawku Naba’s palace on Saturday, April 15, 2023, assured the people of Bawku in the Upper East Region that, government will use legitimate means and the rule of law to resolve the protracted ethnic conflict in the area.
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the Bawku conflict.
The Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah-Boateng, who gave the assurance, said addressing the issue will be a major preoccupation of the government, and as such everything will be done to prevent its escalation.
He, therefore, appealed to the feuding factions in the fratricidal conflict to support the government’s bid to use dialogue to bring lasting peace to the area.
Mr Asamoah-Boateng said this in an interview with the Daily Graphic yesterday after he had called on the factions in the conflict in Bawku.
It was his first trip to the area since assuming office a fortnight ago.
The separate meetings, which were attended by traditional leaders of the parties, were held behind closed doors.
Finding lasting solution
Notwithstanding the quest for lasting peace in the area, Mr Asamoah-Boateng said, the journey would be undertaken without compromising the rule of law.
“I know there will be difficulties along the way; there will be challenges; there will be compromises, but I know that the core values will be protected so that you don’t compromise too much,” he added.
The minister indicated that the government had a very well laid out plan to prioritise areas that required immediate attention to bring closure to those protracted matters.
At the heart of the Kusasi-Mamprusi conflict are issues over litigation over allodial rights and chieftaincy.
Both sides claim allodial ownership of Bawku.
Mr Asamoah-Boateng described the trip as a listening engagement which was done with open-mindedness and said the next move was to put together a road map, with the input of all parties, taking cognisance of previous attempts.
He commended both sides for the reception and their clear support, which was an indication of their recognition that the government wanted to tackle the problem and resolve it once and for all.
Responsibility
The Chieftaincy Minister further said he had made it clear to the factions that the responsibility of the government was to maintain law and order for people to go about their duties peacefully, ensure respect for the rule of law and protect freedom of expression.
All those, he indicated, would be recognised along the way and acknowledged the fact that there would be challenges, the need for compromises in the process, and the requirement for give and take.
He said the government also recognised that there were core positions or areas that should be recognised to provide a win-win situation for both sides so that they could live in peace as one people.
Grievances Mr Asamoah-Boateng urged all interested parties to come to the table with their grievances and not to take entrenched positions while inflaming passions with their actions and commentary, adding that those with extremist stance must calm down and join the mainstream discussion.
He emphasised that no breach of the law would be countenanced because it was the responsibility of the state to protect all its citizens and curb or deal with illegalities according to the rule of law.
Security threat He bemoaned the fact that themajority of issues affecting the security of the state were chieftaincy-related, saying it was worrying that most of those involved brother against brother and people of the same family and with emotional attachment.
The leadership of the Ghana Immigration Servicehas paid a visit to the family of the officer who was murdered on Monday, April 3.
The late officer who was with two other officers was shot by unknown gunmen in Bawku in the Upper East Region whiles they were in a private vehicle toward town to get something to eat after work.
Three officers of the Immigration Service were shot at while driving from Bawkuto Missiga resulting in the death of 42-year-old Philip Motey.
The other two officers, Eric Ayibiya, 30, and Laurence Afri, 42, were also shot multiple times and are currently receiving treatment at the Bawku Presbyterian Hospital.
On the back of this, the leadership of the Ghana Immigration Service visited the family to commiserate and express their condolences.
Head of Public Affairs at the Ghana Immigration Service, Chief Superintendent Amoako-Atta addressing the family disclosed the willingness of the Immigration Service to provide a befitting burial for the late Motey.
“We have lost a gallant officer, you have lost a son and the country has lost a very hardworking and gallant Ghanaian in the service of his country and we are here to commiserate with the family and let you know that whatever it takes to give our departed officer, brother, son, a befitting farewell, we are ready to do that.”
Family members of the late officer could not hide their grief as they were seen visibly wailing about the passage of their beloved brother.
One thousand Special Forces personnel have been dispatched to Bawku in the Upper East Region, where three immigration officers were shot at, one of whom died while trying to get food in front of a police station.
The presence of the Special Forces is intended to increase security while also assisting investigation into the killers who are still on the loose.
The Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu made this known in an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on Wednesday.
“REGSEC, we are intensifying, government is helping us by bringing in Special Forces to Bawku, about 1,000 of them both police and soldiers.”
He added that “some are already at Bawku. Camps are already being built to house these soldiers.”
Other measures, he claims, have been put in place to improve regional security, but he declined to elaborate.
Mr Yakubu urged civil society and individuals to come forward with any information they may have about the incident.
Despite the fact that no arrests have yet been made, he claims that authorities in Bawku are working round the clock to make arrests.
“I can tell you that we are in control of the situation. Government is helping us otherwise it would have been worse than this,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga has condemned the attack on personnel of the Ghana Immigration Service(GIS) which occurred on Monday, April 3, 2023.
In a press release, the legislator said it was worrying that people would be killed in their line of duty.
He, however, assured that an inquiry will be conducted into the matter.
“This is most reprehensible and should not be repeated again. An investigation into the matter must be conducted and the perpetrators brought to book,” the April 4 release read.
A total of one thousand soldiers of the Special Forces have been sent to Bawku in the Upper East Region.
The presence of the Special Forces is intended to increase security while also assisting investigation into the killers who are still on the loose.
The Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu made this known in an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on Wednesday.
“REGSEC, we are intensifying, government is helping us by bringing in Special Forces to Bawku, about 1,000 of them both police and soldiers.”
He added that “some are already at Bawku. Camps are already being built to house these soldiers.”
Other measures, he claims, have been put in place to improve regional security, but he declined to elaborate.
Mr Yakubu urged civil society and individuals to come forward with any information they may have about the incident.
Despite the fact that no arrests have yet been made, he claims that authorities in Bawku are working round the clock to make arrests.
“I can tell you that we are in control of the situation. Government is helping us otherwise it would have been worse than this,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga has condemned the attack on personnel of the Ghana Immigration Service(GIS) which occurred on Monday, April 3, 2023.
In a press release, the legislator said it was worrying that people would be killed in their line of duty.
He, however, assured that an inquiry will be conducted into the matter.
“This is most reprehensible and should not be repeated again. An investigation into the matter must be conducted and the perpetrators brought to book,” the April 4 release read.
The Manager of the Bawku Presbyterian hospital, Mr Ezekiel Amadu Dawibi, in Bawku, Upper East Region, has called for peace in the area to enable good healthcare delivery and ensure the security of the health workers.
Peace, he said, was the most important thing needed in Bawku and the lack of it had reduced client attendance for medical attention at most health facilities in the area.
Mr Dawibi made the call at the annual performance review of the Bawku Municipal Health Directorate organised to review 2022 activities.
It was also planned to create awareness and grant the health service providers in the area the opportunity to help solicit support from stakeholders and partners to complement the efforts of the Regional and Municipal health Directorate for optimum health care delivery.
Speaking on the Outpatients Department (OPD), Mr Abdul – Latiff Zeblim, the Information Officer of the Health Directorate, indicated that OPD attendance from 2020 to 2022 reduced from 259,007 to 249,362, with an estimated reduction rate of attendance of 9,645 per cent.
He said the number of patients who were admitted to the hospital in 2021, reduced from 186.9 to 85.5 in 2022.
Mr Razak Mohammed, the Officer in charge of the Natinga CHIPS, decried the low patronage of family planning services and stressed that most clients did not want to accept family planning due to non-approval by their husbands.
He appealed to the media to help educate the public about the risk and dangers of anemia and other diseases that impact on the health of the people.
The Bawku Municipal Health Director of Ghana Health Services, Mr Edmond Nyawura Mohammed, urged the health workers to be polite and accommodating to all clients.
He enumerated challenges confronting health delivery in the Municipality, including the shortage of drugs, and called on stakeholders and the government to come to the aid of the facilities.
Dr Mohammed Emmanuel Jamal, the Medical Doctor at Quality Health Care Services, said during the conflict, healthcare facilities and workers were left unprotected, exposing them to danger.
There has been intermittent violent conflict in Bawku for the most part of 2022 and 2023, which destabilized the area and caused low patronage of health care.
In honor of Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar,Muslimsin Ghana have begun their fast Today, Thursday, March 23, 2023.
Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, spokesman for the Chief Imam, made the declaration on Wednesday night.
“The report we received and source we are getting from Bawku is that the moon has been sighted at Bawku. This information has been well authenticated based on communication between the Bawku Chief Imam and the office of the Chief Imam.”
“There is no reason to doubt it. On this ground, and by the Chief Imam’s mandate as the supreme leader of Muslims in this country, Muslims will begin fasting on the 23rd of March 2023”, he declared.
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It begins with the sighting of the moon.
Fasting in Ramadan involves abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn to sunset.
Ramadan for Muslims is a month of reflection, and self-improvement in relation to one’s behaviour toward other people, oneself, and Allah.
It is also a way to show solidarity with millions of poor people who cannot afford a four-square meal.
Muslims begin the fast before the call to the Fajr prayer after they are done with suhoor and fast till the setting of the sun after the call of Maghrib evening prayer.
Children, the elderly, people who are travelling, pregnant women, and people who are suffering from chronic illness are, however, excused from fasting, but they are required to make up the fasting later or compensate by feeding the hungry in proportion to the fast they had missed.
The festival of Eid al-Fitr, also known as the festival of fast-breaking, is observed to mark the completion of Ramadan after the 29 to 30-day fast.
Senior High School students admitted in the Bawku Municipality fail to show up in class following conflict in the area.
The protracted chieftaincy dispute in Bawku has left scores of people dead and others sustaining injuries.
About 10 people have been reported dead in recent disturbances.
Students posted to the area have since rejected the admissions offered them.
In an interview with Citi News, the Upper East Regional Coordinator for the Free Senior High School Programme, Kofi Ayamga Anamboyine said the students who would accept admission would be taken through counselling.
Some Islamic Scholars and other Ghanaians have called on the indigenes to let peace prevail by putting down their weapons.
Finance Minister is expected to furnish Parliament with details of the ongoing debt restructuring.
This was after the Minority succeeded with a Private Members’ Motion for Ken Ofori-Atta to present the House with details.
The motion was moved by the Minority Leader, Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Chief Whip, Governs Kwame Agboadza, Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga, Bolgatanga Central MP, Isaac Adongo and MP for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor.
“This Honourable House requests of the Hon Finance Minister to present to Parliament, Government’s Debt Restructuring Programme for consideration,” the order paper indicated.
The Order Paper, however, fell short of highlighting the day the Minister will be demanded to appear before the House.
Mr Ofori-Atta in February appeared before Parliament to brief the House on the exchange programme.
Already, President Akufo-Addo is making another clarion call on friends of Ghana to put in a word of support as talks between Ghana and the Paris Club – especially China – for debt cancellation enter a crucial stage.
The Paris Club is a group of officials from major creditor countries whose role is to find coordinated and sustainable solutions to the payment difficulties experienced by debtor countries.
Ghana hopes to appear before the International Monetary Fund (IMF) board to seek approval for a bailout.
But the government will first have to get confirmation that the over $4 billion debt owed to the Paris Club members will be forgiven or restructured.
This came on the back of the Finance Ministry’s assertion to have met its target of over 80% participation in programme, a crucial requirement in the steps to secure the needed bailout.
In a statement, it said the “Government’s Domestic Debt Exchange Program (DDEP) closed on Friday February 10, 2023 with over 80% participation of eligible bonds. The government wants to thank the people of Ghana for their forbearance and support throughout these very difficult times”.
The Minister is expected to expand on this situation and the subsequent modalities for restructuring the external wing of the bonds.
The German government says it is willing to assist Ghana push through its proposal with its external creditors, especially China, but first, some conditions must be met.
In February, President Akufo-Addo called on German Finance Minister, Christian Lindner, to “encourage” China to accept Ghana’s proposal for debt relief with its largest external creditor, China.
The Asian country claims about $1.7 billion of the entire external debt portfolio of $5.7 billion which Ghana is seeking to restructure.
German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull said that his country is willing to help only if certain conditions are met.
“First of all, we insist that those measures that can be taken here in this country have to be taken. The second condition is that, yes, we are willing to take our share of responsibility as one of the major bilateral donors to Ghana.
According to theMinistry of Interior, three private security guards who went missing after recent killings in Wa in the Upper West Region have not yet been found.
About 10 private security men were killed by unknown assailants in Wa last year which led to the arrest of 27 suspects in connection with the incidents.
Providing an update on the floor of Parliament on the current state of investigations into the serial killings, the Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery said efforts are underway to arrest the other perpetrators of the heinous act.
Giving a breakdown of the progress of investigations so far, Mr. Dery said, “following the disappearance of five-night security guards who were kidnapped by assailants in different locations and subsequently murdered within the Wa Municipality, a special investigation led to the arrest of 27 suspects, and out of the number arrested, 8 suspects have been discharged on the Attorney General’s advice, 15 suspects are on court bail awaiting the Attorney General’s report.”
He also added that “the police are yet to identify and locate three other missing security guards. The three were reported missing between September and October 2022 and no arrest has been made in respect of the three missing guards. The police have intensified education campaigns in the area to sensitize the residents concerning serial killings and kidnappers.”
“Police intelligence is also working around the clock for clues that will lead to the arrest of the perpetrators,” he further disclosed.
Political parties have been cautioned by the Queen Mothers Foundation of Ghana not to use the ongoing crisis in Bawku, in the Upper East Region, as a political tool for their own purposes.
Bawku has recorded substantial instances of violence, and clashes between residents and the security deployed to the town in recent weeks.
The town has been unstable for decades now following chieftaincy disputes between the Mamprusis and Kusasis leading to the loss of lives and the destruction of properties.
The military was recently accused of killing ten residents which prompted 25 divisional chiefs in the area to petition the overlord of Bawku and the government.
“The government must also endeavour to discharge its responsibilities to ensure the resolution of the conflict. Furthermore, we admonish political parties from politicizing the conflict or stoking the fire for political expediency. Rather, they must work together to douse the fire and restore peace”, the group said in a statement.
The queen mothers, who expressed concern about the conflict’s negative impact on women, children, and economic activity in the area, urged factions in the renewed Bawku conflict to put aside their differences and allow peace to prevail.
“The queen mothers foundation of Ghana appeals to the factions in the renewed clashes in Bawku to bury their differences and embrace peace to move the development of the area forward. We particularly, advise the people to refrain from acts of violence and not to allow themselves to be used as conduits to foment trouble.”
They also urged security forces to work hard to keep the area law and order.
“We also ask the traditional authorities to lead the processes of peace and reconciliation for the good of the people. We endeavour the security agencies to ensure peace and security in the area but in so doing, they must be cautious not to infringe on the human rights of the people”, the queen mothers added in the statement.
Security expert Adam Bonaa has stated that some politicians are directly profiting from theBawkuturmoil.
The youth of Nalerigu thronged the palace of the Mamprugu Overlord to fight off attempts by the military to arrest the traditional ruler. This followed a failed military operation to arrest the King who enskinned the Bawku Naba.
The military forces arrived in Nalerigu at midnight with loaded rifles in four armored vehicles and a pickup truck for the operation following a warrant granted by a High Court in Bolgatanga.
Commenting on the development on Morning Starr with Francis Abban, Mr. Bonaa indicated that there have been successful moves at Bawku with dialogue but the government failed to continue.
“If you continue to push security in Bawku or send all your arsenals to Nalerigu, Garu and all those places you can’t stop it. It is not possible. You have to look for a more multifaceted approach to dealing with Bawku. The security element is one, and also catching the bad guys who are profiting and selling weapons. Some politicians are involved, catching them with evidence.
“So weeks ago someone smuggled military uniform and some weapons to Bawku and they were intercepted and sent to the Bawku police station. Everybody has been quiet on this. I don’t know the security official to whom this case was confined, we don’t know what is happening,” Mr. Bonaa stated worriedly.
The security analyst further stated that if the government allows some serious incidents to be swept under the carpet in Bawku there cannot be peace in the area.
“People will take the law into their own hands, yes there is a chieftaincy issue there. But the truth is that it becomes fertile ground for people to make ends meet and some politicians to stay in power, if you ask me,” Mr. Bonaa disclosed.
Survivors of the shooting which occurred on Tuesday showed LuvNews their bullet-ridden vehicles and recounted their ordeal.
The stunned drivers say they decided to drive out of Bawku with their perishable goods after the police refused to grant them escort out of the community.
These cargo vehicles, one driven from the scene of the shooting in Bawku to Akomadan and Suame in Kumasi bear evidence of what took place on Tuesday.
Bullet holes on the windscreen, side and rear of the vehicles show aggressive spontaneous shooting.
Kwaku Karl, 44, the driver of the cargo truck, parked at Akomadan, survived the assault but lost his son, 22-year-old, Kofi Karl.
He narrates how the two of them lay on their side on the floor of the vehicle in an attempt to escape the rain of bullets.
“We laid low in the car to prevent sustaining wounds. I hid my head somewhere with my son’s legs on top of me. Sadly, he sustained some bullets and could not survive. This is just how we positioned ourselves” he stated.
Yakubu Asaripue, the owner of one of the cargo trucks that were attacked, said the incident has gotten him scared.
“The car leading the team is mine. Unfortunately, I lost my driver due to the incident even after putting in much effort to rescue them” he said.
Haruna Issah sustained multiple gunshot wounds from the incident.
“They chased us right after we got into the community. After releasing multiple gunshots at us, we were forced to hide under the car seats but even with that, my driver could not survive and my other mate, is receiving treatment” he explained the situation to Luv News.
Member of Parliament (MP) for Bawku Central constituency, Mahama Ayariga has bemoaned the longstanding dispute among feuding factions in the Bawku conflict.
In an interview with Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM’s morning show, ‘kokrokoo’, he gave the history and circumstances leading to the Cheftaincy conflict in Bawku for many years.
“It has been unfortunate . . . the underline issue in Bawku is about the Kusasi people who are the land owners and the ovewhelming majority wanting to rule themselves,” he said.
According to him there is a pre-colonial and post-colonial history in which the chieftaincy has been moving from one ethnic group to the other until 1983 when the the PNDC sought to place it in the hands of the Kusasis.
He said this was consistent with what the colonial authorities themselves who ochestrated the Mamprusi rule in Bawku sought to change it through Lord Listowell’s Committee when they were leaving.
“. . When they were also leaving they actually sought to change it through Lord Listowell’s Committee so that it will be the Kusasis because they are the land owners and the overwhelming majority,” he explained.
He told Kwami Sefa Kayi that his Uncles have been fighting this issue since time immemorial.
“My Uncles have been fighting this since God knows when . . . unfortunately for them we came under constitutional rule and under constitutional rule nobody can touch the Institution of Chieftaincy other than what it is now.”
Background
In a statement by the Ministry of Information, “The Government condemns developments in Nalerigu today February 15, 2023, concerning the purported enskinment of a new Bawku Naba as illegal and a threat to National Security.”
“The security agencies have therefore been directed to arrest and prosecute any other person who holds himself out as a Bawku Naba.
“Further, any developments that have the potential to undermine the peace of Bawku will also be dealt with swiftly and in accordance with law,” government cautioned in the statement.
The Mamprusi faction in the protracted Bawku conflict was at the palace of the overlord of Mamprugu, Naa Bohugu Mahama Abdulai Sherigah II on Wedneday for the enskinment of a new Bawku Naba despite the recognition of Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II by the government and the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs as the legitimate ruler of the area.
There were reports that efforts by the government to stop the supposed enskinment from happening failed.
Some drivers transporting pepper and tomatoes from Bawku to Accra have reportedly been shot dead, a Luvnews report has said.
The deceased drivers, numbering 3, were traveling with the goods together with some others when some unknown gunmen opened fire on the cargo trucks at a spot 20 kilometers from the town.
Other drivers sustained various levels of injury and are currently receiving treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
Speaking to Luvnews, some of the survivors indicated that they decided to move their goods after the police refused to grant them escort out of the community.
One of the drivers, Kwaku Karl, 44, whose cargo truck was parked at Akomadan lost his 22-year-old son; Kofi Karl during the incident.
According to him, the two of them lay on the ground beside the truck when the robbers were firing bullets.
“We laid low in the car to prevent sustaining wounds. I hid my head somewhere with my son’s legs on top of me. Sadly, he sustained some bullets and could not survive. This is just how we positioned ourselves” he stated.
Yakubu Asaripue, owner of one of the trucks, narrated how he lost his driver during the attacks.
“The car leading the team is mine. Unfortunately, I lost my driver due to the incident even after putting in much effort to rescue them” he said.
On his part, Haruna Issah, a survivor who sustained multiple gunshot wounds from the incident explained what happened to Luvnews.
“They chased us right after we got into the community. After releasing multiple gunshots at us, we were forced to hide under the car seats but even with that, my driver could not survive and my other mate, is receiving treatment,” he indicated.
Meanwhile, evidence presented to Luvnews shows bullet holes in the windscreen, side and rear of some of the affected cargo vehicles, indicative of aggressive shooting.
