Bawku Conflict: Three Killed in Latest Gun Battle as Violence Escalates
Bawku Conflict: Three Killed in Latest Gun Battle as Violence Escalates
- The violence erupted on Friday, November 29, 2024, amidst the ongoing conflict in the region.
- The gunfire was most intense around the Gingande-Zongo area, where several homes were also set ablaze.
- The resurgence of violence coincides with the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile
Three people, including a schoolgirl, have been killed in the latest gun battle in Bawku, bringing the total death toll to 32.
The violence erupted on Friday, November 29, 2024, amidst the ongoing conflict in the region.
The fatalities come just two days after another death, underscoring the rising intensity of the clashes.
The gunfire was most intense around the Gingande-Zongo area, where several homes were also set ablaze.
The shootings, which began around midnight, continued throughout the day, lasting until approximately 1 PM. In addition to the fatalities, several others have been injured by gunfire, with some in critical condition.
The violence in Bawku, which has been ongoing since late October 2024, has been particularly intense during curfew hours, with rival groups clashing and ambushes targeting travelers exacerbating the situation.
The resurgence of violence coincides with the return of rival chief Alhaji Seidu Abagre from exile, with reports suggesting his return may have played a role in reigniting hostilities.
The Bawku region, already grappling with longstanding ethnic and chieftaincy disputes, has been further destabilized by these attacks. Local authorities are under increasing pressure to restore peace, but the situation remains volatile and uncertain.