The Ghana Police Service has imposed a strict ban on the movement of its personnel and their families within Binduri, Bawku, Pusiga, and Garu, following a disturbing rise in security threats in the region.
A wireless communication from the police administration, signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) J.W. Darison, cited a dangerous trend where police officers and their families have become deliberate targets of unidentified assailants in these areas.
“The police administration has observed a dangerous development in Bawku and its environs. Personnel and their families have become targets in these areas by unknown persons,” the directive stated. It further announced, “The Police Service directs a ban on personnel travelling to Bawku with immediate effect.”
The directive also extends the ban to the movement of both indigenous and non-indigenous police personnel, along with their families, in Pusiga and Binduri. Officers deployed on operational duties in these zones have been instructed to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure they are accompanied by armed escorts for their safety.
Recent Attack Sparks Renewed Concerns
The police directive follows a deadly gun attack in Binduri, near Atuba, where a man was killed, and his body, along with his motorcycle, was set ablaze by the attackers. While authorities have confirmed the incident, they have yet to provide detailed information. However, initial investigations suggest the attack may be linked to the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, a long-standing feud that has intensified in recent weeks.
High-Level Intervention Falls Short
This latest violence unfolded less than 24 hours after the Acting Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, visited the Bawku Naba, Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, to advocate for enhanced collaboration between traditional authorities and security forces. During the visit, the IGP assured the Bawku Naba of the police’s commitment to neutrality and professionalism in addressing the area’s volatile situation.
The visit also followed a petition by the Kusaug Youth, who expressed grave concerns over alleged misconduct by some police officers deployed in the region. The IGP pledged to address these concerns while reinforcing the police’s dedication to restoring peace.
Call for Action
The Binduri incident has drawn widespread condemnation from groups like the Mamprugu Youth Association (MAYA). In a strongly worded statement, MAYA condemned the attack and urged the government to take swift action, including increasing security deployments in Binduri and restricting motorbike usage to curb such incidents.
The group also called on the Member of Parliament for Binduri, Mahmoud Issifu, to take urgent and practical steps to address the escalating insecurity in the constituency.
As tensions remain high, the police administration has reiterated its call for strict compliance with the new directives, urging all personnel and residents in the affected areas to prioritize safety and vigilance.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
