Dr. Victor Doke, a security analyst and lecturer at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), has backed the curfew imposed on Walewale by the Ministry of Interior.
The curfew, effective from February 15, 2025, runs from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. daily. It was implemented following a surge in violent attacks along the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway, which has left at least nine people dead, including a child.
While Walewale’s MP, Dr. Mahama Tiah Abdul-Kabiru, has criticized the curfew as politically motivated, Dr. Doke insists it is necessary to curb further violence and apprehend the perpetrators.
Speaking to Channel One News, he described the killings as alarming and urged residents to cooperate with security forces. He noted that the attackers appeared to have military-style training, heightening the risk to civilians.
Dr. Doke stressed that the curfew is a preventive measure, not a punitive one.
“I urge the people of Walewale to be patient. The security forces are working to capture these criminals, and the curfew is meant to protect them,” he said.
He also warned that the attacks, which claimed the lives of Burkinabé nationals, could strain Ghana’s diplomatic relations with Burkina Faso if not managed properly.
Background
On February 14, attackers ambushed and torched a bus near a police checkpoint in Walewale, killing multiple passengers. The bus, which had broken down, was under police supervision when gunmen opened fire, forcing passengers and officers to flee.
Initially, three people, including a toddler, were found burned in the vehicle. A fourth body was discovered the next day. Several injured victims later succumbed to their wounds, raising the death toll to nine.
All the deceased were identified as Burkinabé and Togolese nationals.