30 Oct 2024 | 09:40 AM UTC
Ghana: Further violence likely in the coming days in Bawku after communal clashes kill approximately 20 people since Oct. 24
Further violence likely in the coming days after communal clashes kill about 20 people since Oct. 24 in Bawku, Upper East Region, Ghana.
Further violence is likely in the coming days after communal clashes killed approximately 20 people in Bawku, Upper East Region, Ghana. The clashes reportedly began around Oct. 24 and spread over several days. In addition, unidentified assailants opened fire on a vehicle, killing eight people near Gbimsi in the North East Region on Oct. 27; the incident may be related to longstanding tensions in Bawku. Authorities have amended a 22:00-04:00 security curfew, now applying 18:00-06:00.
The renewed violence is due to the return of an exiled leading figure last week after the cancellation of the arrest warrant issued against him for illegally claiming the chieftainship, which was occupied by another chief.
A heightened security presence will likely remain in the area over the coming days; security forces may establish checkpoints and search vehicles and people. If tensions do not abate, officials could implement further movement restrictions in the impacted area. Locals opposed to the curfew or the security presence could stage protests; police will likely move forcefully to disperse any gatherings that may materialize.
Abide by the curfew conditions and carry personal identification documents. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. Plan for movement and business disruptions. Avoid all demonstrations. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
The curfew, frequently amended, has been in effect for several years in Bawku due to insecurity and violence linked to longstanding communal grievances over a chieftaincy dispute. In addition, groups aligned with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have intensified attacks in northern coastal West Africa, including Togo, Benin, and Cote d'Ivoire, in recent years. Concerns have consequently grown that such groups may soon attempt to take advantage of the instability in Bawku. In April 2023, officials deployed about 1,000 security personnel following the death of an immigration officer.
