Omanghana
Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno and Savannah Regional Minister Salisu Be-Awuribe have visited Gbindabuor in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District following violence that claimed the lives of a civilian and a police officer.
The visit allowed the officials to assess the security situation, obtain first-hand information and engage local stakeholders as authorities work to restore calm in the community.
Before travelling to Gbindabuor, the IGP and Regional Minister participated in a closed-door meeting involving the Savannah Regional Security Council and the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Security Committee. The meeting reviewed the circumstances surrounding the incident and measures required to maintain peace.
The violence occurred on September 16, 2026, when General Constable Kofi Redeemer Owusu and other officers were conducting highway patrol duties along the Gbindabuor-Kenkyen community road.
According to the police’s preliminary account, a motorcyclist approaching the patrol team suddenly diverted into the bush after seeing the police vehicle. The officers became suspicious and followed a different route, where they found him unconscious on a bush road.
The patrol team picked up the rider and attempted to transport him to a hospital, but he died on the way. He was later identified in court reports as Abu Seidu, a teacher and resident of Gbindabuor.
News of his death reportedly sparked anger in the community, with some residents suspecting police involvement. A mob subsequently attacked the patrol team, killing General Constable Owusu and injuring other officers. The police vehicle was also extensively damaged.
The precise cause of the motorcyclist’s death has not yet been established. The bodies of the civilian and the police officer were transported to the Damongo Morgue for preservation and autopsy as investigations continue.
During the visit, IGP Yohuno expressed disappointment and sorrow over the officer’s killing, describing it as a painful reminder of the dangers police personnel face while performing their duties.
He announced that General Constable Owusu would receive a posthumous promotion to the next rank in recognition of his service and sacrifice. The IGP also encouraged personnel deployed to the area to remain committed to their responsibilities despite the tragedy.
Be-Awuribe condemned the resort to mob justice and assured residents that the Regional Coordinating Council would support a thorough investigation into both deaths.
He urged community members to cooperate with investigators, avoid reprisal attacks and refrain from further violence. The minister also instructed security personnel deployed to Gbindabuor to exercise restraint, remain professional and respect the rule of law.
Police initially announced the arrest of 36 suspects in connection with the attack. The number later increased, with 43 suspects arraigned before the Buipe Magistrate Court on charges connected to the murder and abetment of the murder of a public officer. Another suspect arrested with a locally manufactured firearm was expected to face separate proceedings.
Security reinforcements from Damongo, Bole, Sawla, Tuna and Kalba, supported by the Regional Intelligence Team, have been deployed to the community.
Authorities have promised to investigate the circumstances surrounding the civilian’s death and identify those responsible for the fatal attack on the police officer. Residents have meanwhile been urged to remain calm and allow the legal process to determine responsibility.
Source: Omanghana
