Three civilians die after gunmen open fire at Armed Forces escort

Three civilians have been killed after gunmen attacked a military-escorted convoy in Bawku, the Ghana Armed Forces has confirmed.

The incident occurred on Monday, April 27, 2026, when an escort convoy protecting about 140 civilians came under heavy gunfire from unknown assailants at Binduri.

The convoy, which was traveling from Bawku toward Bolgatanga, was reportedly shot at multiple times, leading to the deaths of three civilians and leaving one other person injured.

In a press release issued by the military’s Department of Public Relations, the Armed Forces stated that troops responded swiftly and were able to repel the attackers. “In the process, the military successfully repulsed the attack on the convoy, resulting in the death of 7 assailants,” the statement said. It added that security personnel pursued the fleeing suspects and recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition.

According to the release, the items retrieved included a G3 automatic rifle, two magazines loaded with 20 rounds each, and an additional 176 rounds of ammunition.

The military also confirmed that ten suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack and are currently assisting with ongoing investigations.

The Armed Forces further cautioned the public against interfering with military operations. “The Ghana Armed Forces wishes to caution all to desist from engaging the military or any other security service during its operations,” the statement noted.

It also extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

The attack highlights ongoing security challenges in the Bawku enclave, where tensions and sporadic violence have persisted in recent years.

In response to earlier attacks on civilians, President John Dramani Mahama in June 2025 directed the military to provide armed escort for vehicles traveling through high-risk routes in the area.

That directive led to the deployment of armed escorts along key corridors, including the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom road and the Walewale-Bolgatanga stretch, both of which have witnessed repeated incidents targeting commuters.

Monday’s attack underscores the risks that remain despite heightened security measures, as authorities continue efforts to stabilize the area and protect civilian lives.