Nkawkaw Zongo Community gripped by fear after three killed in shooting incident

A wave of grief and anxiety has swept through the Nkawkaw Zongo community following the brazen killing of three Fulani men by unknown gunmen on the night of Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

The victims—Mohammed Wanto, 47, Abubakari Abdallah, 57, and Abubakar Mohammed, 56—were shot at close range by masked attackers while gathered at their usual evening spot near a veterinary shop in the Zongo Barracks area. The ambush, which occurred around 8:00 p.m., left two of the men dead at the scene. The third victim, who attempted to escape, was pursued and fatally shot.

A child caught in the line of fire suffered injuries and is currently being treated at the Nkawkaw Holy Family Hospital.

The brutal attack has shaken the community, igniting fear and inflaming tensions. Some residents are calling for increased law enforcement presence, while others are pushing for more drastic action. “The shocking nature of the attack has sparked fear among residents, with some calling for tighter security measures and others demanding the removal of the Fulani community from the area due to rising safety concerns.”

In the wake of the killings, local authorities are moving to strengthen public safety measures. The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Kwahu West, Halidu Tamimu, has outlined plans to enhance surveillance and police visibility along key areas.

He stated, “CCTV cameras will be installed in the area through a partnership with the Minister for Communications and the CEO of the National Information Technology Agency (NITA).”

Meanwhile, the Nkawkaw Central Police Command has opened an investigation into the incident. Although the identities of the attackers and their motive remain unknown, officers say they are actively pursuing leads and working to calm tensions within the area.

Authorities are appealing for public cooperation as they work to piece together what led to the killings. “Police say they are pursuing multiple leads and are working to restore calm in the community.”

In the meantime, the community continues to mourn the loss of three of its members, with many hoping justice will soon be served.