The Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces have reassured the public that they are actively working to stabilize the security situation in Bawku, surrounding areas, and along the Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale highway.
This comes in response to a tragic incident in which eight travellers were killed by gunmen who blocked the highway near Gbimsi, a community close to Walewale.
In the wake of the attack, which saw armed men intercepting vehicles and targeting individuals, police and military personnel have increased their presence in Bawku, nearby communities, and the Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale corridor.
The joint operation is focused on securing the area, managing traffic, and safeguarding residents and travellers.
The security agencies reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace, law, and order and encouraged the public to remain calm as they work to restore stability in the affected areas.
Background
The incident on Sunday involved armed men setting up roadblocks in Gbimsi and Walewale Town, where they stopped vehicles to identify potential targets.
Survivors recounted a harrowing ordeal: “I was travelling from Sunyani to Paga. Upon reaching Walewale, people had mounted roadblocks and were searching for individuals to kill. The incident lasted for more than an hour, yet security did not respond.”
Approximately eight people were killed in the attack, with two vehicles set ablaze, raising significant security concerns. The attack is believed to be connected to the ongoing Bawku Conflict, which has recently escalated after a period of calm.
In response, the Ghana Police Service announced that enhanced security measures are being implemented along the highway to ensure public safety. Additional joint Police and Military deployments are also underway in Bawku and its environs to strengthen security and manage traffic in the area.
In a statement, the security agencies reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order: “The security agencies would like to once again assure the public that we are committed to maintaining peace, security, law, and order in Bawku and its environs.”
