Chaos in Bawku: Shootout Kills One, Police Commander’s Home Destroyed

Violence erupted once again in Bawku, Upper East Region, on Wednesday afternoon, leading to the death of one person and leaving two others severely injured.

The chaos unfolded in the town’s marketplace, where a disagreement between two factions quickly escalated into a violent confrontation.

Sources indicate that tensions flared when one group, associated with a faction involved in the long-standing chieftaincy dispute, ordered women from the opposing side to leave the market.

This demand sparked a scuffle, which attracted police officers who attempted to intervene and restore order. However, the situation deteriorated rapidly, and gunshots were fired as some individuals allegedly opened fire on the police officers.

In the ensuing shootout, one civilian tragically lost their life, and two others were critically injured. As the situation calmed down briefly, the aftermath of the violence only served to heighten the tensions in the area.

In what appears to be an act of retaliation, a group of angry youth targeted the private residence of the Bawku Divisional Police Commander, ACP Adamu Seidu, setting his home ablaze. At this time, it is unclear whether anyone was inside the house during the attack.

The violence didn’t end there. A nearby police barracks also came under attack, with reports indicating that a police vehicle was set on fire. In light of these developments, police authorities swiftly evacuated personnel from the barracks, fearing further escalation of the unrest.

As the situation remains volatile, security forces are working tirelessly to restore order in the region. However, the atmosphere in Bawku remains tense, with deep-rooted disputes threatening to push the town into further instability.