IGP Escapes Sniper’s Bullets @ Bawku

IGP Yohuno Meets Bawku Naba

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, faced danger on April 11, 2025. An unidentified gunman shot at his official vehicle after he visited the Bawku Naba's Palace. The motive for this attack remains unclear. This incident highlights security challenges for both citizens and officials.

A reliable source in Bawku reported that the shooting happened shortly after the IGP entered his vehicle. He had gone to apologize to the chiefs and people of Bawku on behalf of the Ghana Police Service. The Overlord of Bawku was reportedly upset about the shooting incident after Mr. Yohuno left the palace.

The guards identified the shooter, who was then punished with horsetail whips before being released. Later, twelve chiefs from Bawku met with IGP Yohuno at a local police barracks to apologize for the incident. Despite this close call, Mr. Yohuno remained unfazed and visited Vineyard Hospital to support those injured in recent disturbances.

He paid their medical bills and urged youth in conflict areas to join the police service. The IGP assured them they could apply if they met requirements. He acknowledged challenges in achieving regional balance due to centralized recruitment processes.

The ongoing conflict between two ethnic groups escalated recently over a market dispute involving the Kusaug people. Clashes with police resulted in several deaths, including an opinion leader. In retaliation, an angry mob burned police barracks and vehicles.

They also targeted homes belonging to local leaders, including MP Mahama Ayariga and MP Laadi Ayii Ayamba. In related news, Kofi Bentil from IMANI Africa expressed doubt about Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II's ability to mediate effectively in Bawku's crisis.

On Joy FM’s Newsfile program, he argued that military intervention is necessary now more than ever. He warned against external threats from groups in Agbogbloshie, Burkina Faso, and Northern Nigeria seeking to exploit Bawku's unrest.

Security Analyst Col Festus Aboagye (rtd) commented on recent events affecting peace efforts in Bawku since February 2023 when a new Bawku Naba was enskinned at Nalerigu. He criticized using a non-armored vehicle for IGP Yohuno given the area's instability.

Col Aboagye suggested deploying five armored cars retrieved from former military chiefs instead of using them only in cities.