One dead, police barracks torched in violent clashes in Bawku

One person has died and a police barracks burnt following violent clashes in Bawku, linked to a chieftaincy dispute. Security forces have restored calm

One person has been confirmed dead and several others injured following violent clashes between a youth group and law enforcement officers in Bawku, located in Ghana’s Upper East Region.

The violent incident, which occurred on Wednesday, also resulted in the burning of a police barracks and the private residences of three police officers, including that of the Bawku Divisional Police Commander.

Law enforcement agencies, including the police and military, have since managed to bring the situation under control, although tensions in the town remain high.

Details

The unrest reportedly began when one faction involved in the ongoing chieftaincy dispute demanded that women from the opposing faction, who were trading at the local market, vacate the premises.

The police intervened after the matter was reported, leading to a confrontation between officers and the youth group.

According to reports, gunfire broke out when the youth allegedly opened fire on the police, prompting a crossfire. One civilian was killed, and two others sustained injuries in the exchange, escalating tensions further.

In retaliation, the youth reportedly attacked and set fire to the residence of the Bawku Divisional Police Commander and the home of a police CID officer. The police barracks were also torched. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during these attacks on police facilities.

Following the violence, security forces evacuated police personnel from the barracks and have since intensified patrols in the area to restore calm and prevent further unrest.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as investigations are ongoing.

Source: 3news.com