The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the fatal shooting of Queenmother Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker during a naming ceremony at Gbawe Zero on June 19.
The suspect, Gilbert Awuni, also known as “Starboy,” allegedly shot the queenmother at close range, killing her instantly. Another victim, 38-year-old trader Priscilla Naa Aryeley, sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and is currently receiving treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre. She is reported to be in stable condition.
According to police investigations, the event—organized by Ibrahim Nii Aryee Quarshie Solomon—was attended by traditional rulers and Asafo groups. Around 7 p.m., some individuals armed with locally manufactured weapons began firing indiscriminately during the ceremony.
Starboy, an Okada rider from Danchira, reportedly fled the scene on a motorbike with an accomplice, identified only as “Oxygen,” after the shooting. Police say the suspects had consumed sobolo drinks allegedly laced with narcotics prior to the incident.
Following swift intelligence-led operations, the Accra Regional Police Intelligence Directorate traced Starboy to Asokore in the Ashanti Region, where he was arrested. During interrogation, he admitted to firing the weapon while under the influence of alcohol and claimed to have discarded the firearm afterward. Efforts are ongoing to retrieve it.
The event organizer, Ibrahim Nii Aryee Quarshie Solomon, had earlier been arrested and reportedly admitted to authorizing the use of firearms at the gathering. Another accomplice has also been taken into custody. Police recovered a locally manufactured gun, empty cartridges, and gunpowder as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Ghana Police Service has strongly condemned the reckless and unlawful use of firearms at public and cultural events, emphasizing that such actions endanger lives and public safety.
“The possession and discharge of firearms without lawful authority is a serious offence,” said Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Accra Region. “The Police will not hesitate to prosecute anyone who violates the law.”
Investigations into the case continue.
