Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, is ramping up efforts to de-escalate tensions and rebuild trust between security forces and the local population in Bawku, following a deadly confrontation between police and youth in the area on April 10.
As part of a broader conflict resolution and peace-building mission, the IGP embarked on a multi-day working tour across the troubled Bawku enclave and surrounding districts. The trip included visits to communities affected by the unrest, health facilities treating the injured, and key police and military installations.
His tour comes in the aftermath of a violent incident that reportedly resulted in multiple casualties and injuries. The private home of Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, was also allegedly torched during the chaos—raising the stakes in an already fragile security environment.
During the visit, Mr. Yohuno met with victims recovering from gunshot wounds. The injured individuals welcomed the gesture and pleaded with the Police chief to help broker a lasting peace for the volatile area.
The IGP also visited the Police Training School in Nangode, engaging with instructors and security personnel, before moving to nearby communities, including Pusiga, Kusasa, and Garu. These stops were part of an assessment tour to gauge property damage and hear directly from officers and residents affected by the violence.
A day earlier, Mr. Yohuno had paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of Bawku, Zugraan Bawku Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II. During that engagement, the IGP expressed sorrow over the loss of life, including that of Fuseini Iddrisu, and appealed for the support of traditional authorities in bridging the divide between the Police and the youth.
Underscoring the Police administration’s commitment to neutrality and professionalism, Mr. Yohuno reminded officers to act within the confines of the law and uphold their duty to protect all citizens without bias.
In a statement released afterward, the Ghana Police Service emphasized its ongoing dialogue with traditional rulers, opinion leaders, and residents, reaffirming a shared goal to restore calm and enhance collaboration with the community.
With tensions still simmering, the IGP’s outreach is seen as a critical step toward restoring stability and rebuilding public confidence in security institutions across the Bawku area.
