A joint task force comprising the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces has increased its visibility in Bawku following a fresh outbreak of violence on Thursday October 24 2024. According to reports from GhanaWeb and Citi Newsroom the renewed unrest resulted in the deaths of two individuals. These incidents have sparked concerns over the fragile peace in the Upper East Regional municipality which has a history of protracted chieftaincy disputes.
The security agencies have intensified vehicular and foot patrols within the township and its surrounding communities to deter potential attackers. A report from Joy Online indicates that the deceased were victims of targeted shooting incidents that occurred in different parts of the town. Personnel on the ground are working to identify the perpetrators behind the latest killings while local authorities urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement officers.
Government officials have reiterated the need for residents to adhere to the existing curfew as security forces attempt to stabilize the area. The Ministry of the Interior has not issued a new statement regarding hours but the Ghana Police Service confirms that tactical teams are monitoring key flashpoints. Security sources cited by the Daily Graphic suggest that the latest violence is linked to the ongoing tensions surrounding the Bawku chieftaincy crisis which frequently leads to sporadic gunfire and casualties.
As of Friday morning the streets of Bawku remained relatively quiet but heavily guarded by armed personnel. No suspects have been officially named or paraded in connection with Thursday morning shootings. Local leaders and peace mediators are calling for a cessation of hostilities to allow for a formal investigation into the deaths. The Ghana Police Service remains the primary body investigating the criminal aspect of the violence while military units provide perimeter security and escort services for essential workers in the region.