Bawku conflict: Eight killed as gunmen block Bolgatanga-Tamale highway

Eight travellers have lost their lives after gunmen blocked the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi, a community close to Walewale, and opened fire.

On Sunday, the armed men set up roadblocks in both Gbimsi and Walewale Town, stopping vehicles to identify potential targets.

Passengers caught in the blockade faced interrogation over their identities, and in the deadly incident, approximately eight people were killed, while two vehicles were set ablaze, sparking significant security concerns.

A survivor recounted the terrifying 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.”

The attack is believed to be linked to the ongoing Bawku Conflict, which has flared up again after a period of relative peace.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has assured travellers of increased security presence along the highway in the coming days.

In a statement, the Ghana Police Service disclosed that they are working to bring the security situation in Bawku, its surrounding areas, and along the Bolgatanga – Walewale – Tamale highway, under control.

Aside from the Police and Military deployment in Bawku and its environs, the police noted there is also a joint Police and Military deployment along the Bolgatanga-Walewale-Tamale highway to ensure security and manage vehicular traffic.

“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.”