Military Retrieves Ammunition, Arrests Armed Suspect in Binduri Raid as Bawku Conflict Increases
Binduri, Upper East Region – In a significant move to check the rising gun violence in and around Bawku, security personnel have intercepted a batch of ammunition and arrested a weapon-wielding suspect in a tactical operation in Binduri District. The move comes as part of sustained operations by security agents to put an end to the raging conflict that has captured the region for a few months now.
The operation, which was carried out on March 17, 2025, was carried out based on intelligence reports of the existence of armed actors in the district. During the raid, soldiers discovered several concealed firearms, including assault rifles, and quantities of live ammunition hidden inside a residential compound. One suspect male was arrested at the location.
Early probes suggest that the arrested man could be a key cog in the supply of weapons to the actors in the Bawku conflict. The authorities also believe that he has connections to previous violent incidents in the region, including attacks on civilians and vehicles traversing the Binduri-Bawku road. His arrest is being considered a success for ongoing efforts at dismantling weapon-carrying networks in the Upper East Region.
The Bawku conflict, which had its roots in an ancient chieftaincy dispute between the Kusasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups, has erupted sporadically over the years, with renewed hostilities since the latter part of 2024. The resumed conflict has resulted in numerous deaths and significantly disrupted normal activities in Bawku and its surrounding districts.
In response to the heightened insecurity, the government has ramped up security operations in the region. The police and military officers have increased patrols and are using surveillance equipment, including drones, to track the activities of armed groups. The goal of these efforts is to halt the illegal sale of weapons and restore peace to violated communities.
Security authorities warn that the country's illegal possession of guns remains a significant problem. The open borders with the neighboring countries have made it easy for weapons to be smuggled into Ghana, and it has become challenging to control the situation. Authorities are therefore increasing border patrols and attempting to improve intelligence-sharing between agencies.
Traditional leaders and local authorities welcomed the recent military action and demanded enhanced collaboration between the residents and security agents. They are demanding residents report any unusual activities and cooperate in peace efforts aimed at calming the tensions that are driving the conflict.
Meanwhile, the suspect is still detained to face charges of unlawful possession of firearms and membership in organised violence. Further investigations are underway to trace his accomplices and arrest them.
The government has reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Bawku conflict. National peacebuilding institutions other than security interventions are also conducting dialogue between the warring parties to ensure reconciliation and stability in the long term.
As the war still looms large over the Upper East Region, the recent operation in Binduri is a strong indication of the determination of the state to bring back law and order. The expectation of both authorities and people is that through sustained efforts and community participation, lasting peace can finally be realized.