Bawku: Family of slain military officer demand justice

Grief and a resolute demand for justice characterised the burial, memorial, and thanksgiving service held on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, for the late Warrant Officer Class II (WOII) Kpatiran Abraham A.K.A. Challapioo.

The 46-year-old military officer was tragically shot dead on Monday, March 17th, 2025, near a buffer zone established to quell the ongoing chieftaincy conflict in Avengo, a suburb of Bawku.

The solemn ceremony, held at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Tongo, drew a large gathering of mourners including family members, fellow military personnel, community members, and dignitaries such as the Member of Parliament for Talensi Constituency, Hon. Daniel Dung Mahama, the Upper East Regional Security Coordinator, and the Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugre Atanga. The requiem mass was concelebrated by three priests: Rev. Fr. Francis Adagyine, the Parish Priest of St. Theresa Catholic Church, Tongo, who was the main celebrant, supported by Rev. Fr. David Ayariga and Rev. Fr. Jacob Moldan.

Amidst the sorrowful atmosphere, the underlying sentiment from the family was a strong call for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding WOII Kpatiran's untimely death. In a moving tribute read on behalf of his siblings, the profound shock and pain of their loss were palpable. They described the news of his death as a "bitter thunder" that left them "pained and deeply broken."

The siblings poignantly questioned the nature of his demise, stating that they had not received any prior information about ill health or injuries, only the sudden and devastating news of his shooting. They expressed their struggle to comprehend the circumstances leading to his death, highlighting the numerous unanswered questions that plague their minds.

"Why did you leave us so suddenly? We know there is time for everyone to crossover, but in your case, your life was forcefully taken away from you," the tribute read, underscoring the family's belief that WOII Kpatiran's death was not natural.

The siblings further revealed their persistent efforts to seek clarity from the military and relevant authorities. "We the siblings have endlessly petitioned the military and all relevant authorities concerned in this matter for answers, but all to no avail. Every move and every single action to ascertain the truth about what happened to our dear AB fell on death ears. It is indeed heart-wrenching and mind-boggling to try to decipher."

Their tribute echoed a strong demand for accountability, stating their unwavering belief that WOII Kpatiran would "not rest until those wicked and heartless individuals who caused his untimely death are brought to book." This powerful statement underscored the family's determination to see justice served for their fallen brother.

The biography of the late WOII Kpatiran, read by the family, painted a picture of a dedicated and accomplished man. Born on June 19th, 1979, he was described as a devout Christian, actively involved in the church from a young age. He pursued his education diligently, culminating in a Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Computing from Kumasi Technical University in 2017. He further excelled in his military career, serving in various peace-keeping missions including UNIFIL GH 67 (2008), UNIFIL GH 73 (2011), and UNIFIL GH 90 (2024), and was recognized with medals during the Ghana at 50 celebrations.

Notably, the biography highlighted the perplexing nature of his death in the context of his character. A tribute from his colleagues in the 4th Infantry Battalion described him as "a man of few words but always executed every task that was given him with passion," further emphasizing the shock and disbelief surrounding his violent end. The biography emotionally stated, "Many of his friends and loved ones attested to the fact that AB was the last to start a fight, though he always insisted that the right must be done."

Adding to the family's grief, the incident that claimed WOII Kpatiran's life marked the third death of a security officer in the Bawku area since 2022, a region grappling with a protracted chieftaincy conflict. This grim statistic has understandably heightened tensions among residents and amplified the family's call for decisive action to address the insecurity in the area.

In a heartfelt tribute from his wife, she described WOII Kpatiran as the "love of my life, my soul mate," and a "wonderful man and a fine soldier." Her words painted a picture of a loving husband and father whose "kindness, strength and humility touched not just our family but all who knew him." She expressed the immense void his absence has created, stating, "Not only was he a wonderful husband, but a wonderful father."

The Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugre Atanga, conveyed the President's condolences to the bereaved family. He acknowledged the pain of losing a life at a young age and assured the family of the President's sympathy and support. He also addressed the family's concerns regarding the investigation into WOII Kpatiran's death, promising to personally follow up with the relevant security agencies to ensure a thorough and conclusive resolution to the case, bringing peace to the family.

Following the church service, the remains of WOII Kpatiran were conveyed to his residence for interment. The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) accorded their fallen comrade full military honors, including the laying of wreaths from key leaders and his son, a ceremonial parade, the solemn notes of a brass band, and traditional gun salutes.

While the military honors provided a dignified farewell, the underlying demand from the family for truth, justice, and accountability for the death of WOII Kpatiran remains a pressing issue. Their voices, filled with grief and a resolute spirit, call for a comprehensive investigation that will bring closure and prevent further loss of life in the troubled region. The community and the nation now await decisive action from the authorities to address the family's concerns and ensure that justice is served.