Eight travelers were killed when gunmen attacked on the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi, a community close to Walewale. The tragic event unfolded on Sunday as the assailants set up roadblocks in Gbimsi and Walewale Town, stopping vehicles to identify potential targets.
Reports indicate that passengers caught in the blockade faced questioning about their identities. In the resulting violence, eight people lost their lives, and two vehicles were set on fire, intensifying security concerns for residents and travelers in the region.
A survivor described the terrifying ordeal, saying,
I was traveling from Sunyani to Paga. Upon reaching Walewale, people had mounted roadblocks and were searching for individuals to kill. The incident lasted more than an hour, yet there was no response from security.
This account highlights the fear and chaos experienced during the attack and frustration over the lack of a timely response by security forces. The attack is thought to be related to the ongoing Bawku conflict, which has reignited after a period of relative peace. Rising violence along this major route has raised alarm among residents and travelers, sparking calls for stronger security measures to protect highway users.
In response, the Ghana Police Service has pledged to boost security along the highway in the coming days. Police issued a statement acknowledging the urgent need to restore safety and order in light of recent events. Additionally, the military will work alongside police to ensure security and manage traffic, aiming to prevent further violence and protect civilians.
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.
said the statement.
