In a tragic incident on Monday, March 17, 2025, two individuals were fatally shot in Atuba, a suburb within the Binduri District of the Upper East Region of Ghana.
This violent act is suspected to be linked to the ongoing and deeply rooted conflict in Bawku, which has plagued the region for several months.
The attack occurred during peak market hours, when gunmen on motorbikes indiscriminately opened fire on a group of traders and shoppers. Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos and panic as people fled in all directions to escape the gunfire, which claimed the lives of the victims nearly instantaneously.
The deceased have been identified as Mohammed, a respected veterinary officer known for his service to the community, and a local pastor, revered for his dedication and support to his congregation and the wider populace. Both individuals were well-regarded and their untimely deaths have left the community in mourning.
While the specific motive behind this horrific attack remains shrouded in mystery, local authorities and residents speculate that it is yet another chapter in the ongoing violence stemming from the unresolved tensions of the Bawku conflict. Since its resurgence in October 2024, the violence has escalated, leading to a cumulative death toll of approximately 76 individuals.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, tensions remain high, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and peacebuilding efforts to address the deep-seated issues fueling this conflict.