At least nine people have died in renewed clashes in Bawku, where 48 hours of nonstop gunfire have led to properties being burned and roadblocks established.
This surge in violence follows a deadly incident in which eight travelers lost their lives after armed gunmen ambushed vehicles on the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi, a community close to Walewale.
On Sunday, these armed individuals set up roadblocks in both Gbimsi and Walewale Town, stopping vehicles to identify potential targets. Passengers caught in the blockade faced intense interrogation regarding their identities.
In the ensuing chaos, approximately eight people were killed, and two vehicles were set ablaze, raising significant security concerns.
One survivor recounted the harrowing experience: “I was traveling from Sunyani to Paga.
Upon reaching Walewale, I found people had mounted roadblocks and were searching for individuals to kill. The ordeal lasted for more than an hour, yet security forces did not respond.”
This attack is believed to be linked to the ongoing Bawku Conflict, which has flared up again after a period of relative calm.
In response to the escalating violence, the Ghana Police Service has assured travelers of an increased security presence along the highway in the coming days.
In a statement, the police disclosed that efforts are underway to restore security in Bawku and along the Bolgatanga–Walewale–Tamale highway.
The police have emphasized that there will be a joint deployment of both police and military personnel in Bawku and its surrounding areas, as well as along the highway, to ensure safety and manage vehicular traffic.
“The security agencies would like to reassure the public that we are committed to maintaining peace, security, law, and order in Bawku and its environs,” the statement concluded.
