Four killed at NHIA Office attack in Garu

At least four people, including a National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) staff member, a local chief, and a headteacher, were shot dead on Monday after armed men attacked the NHIA district office in Garu, Upper East Region.

The midday assault shocked the normally peaceful town and left residents in panic.

The incident began around 10 a.m., when four assailants on two motorbikes reportedly stormed the NHIA premises and opened fire indiscriminately. Witnesses said the attackers pursued fleeing residents and schoolchildren through nearby streets, intensifying the terror.

Edward Ndebugri, former Presiding Member of the Garu District Assembly, described the chaotic scenes. “At first, people thought the shooting was near the rural bank, but it quickly became clear that the NHIA office was under attack. Two people were shot at the facility—one inside and another outside,” he said.

The gunmen were dressed in smocks, helmets, and masks. Hospital sources confirmed that one NHIA staff member died inside the office while another victim was killed on the premises. A headteacher of Garu G/A Primary School was shot while fleeing with pupils, and a local chief also lost his life, though the circumstances remain unclear. Witnesses noted that the attackers did not steal anything, suggesting the assault was targeted rather than a robbery.

Following the rampage, the gunmen escaped through the Garu Presbyterian Hospital area, passing the Garu Catholic Junior High School and heading toward the Kugri/Songo road. Their current whereabouts remain unknown. No arrests have been made, and no group has claimed responsibility.

Security forces quickly reinforced Garu, with heavily armed police and military personnel deployed to key locations, including the NHIA office and nearby hospitals. Several other victims were treated for gunshot wounds at the Garu Presbyterian Hospital, while authorities continue investigations into the motive behind the attack.

Residents have urged calm while calling for swift action to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, restore security, and prevent future attacks.