Bawku Conflict: Armed men block highway, attack passengers near Gbimsi

A chilling incident unfolded on the Bolgatanga-Tamale highway near Gbimsi in the North East Region, as a group of armed men blocked the road, set a vehicle ablaze, and assaulted passengers.

The attackers, wielding AK-47 rifles and other weapons, targeted travelers from Bawku, exacerbating tensions from the ongoing chieftaincy conflict that resurfaced on October 26.

Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene: "I saw people holding guns and blocking the road. They were burning tyres and said they were looking for Kusasis." One survivor, who wished to remain anonymous, recounted being screened by the assailants and narrowly escaping harm. "They asked if I was a Kusasi, and when I said no, they let me pass. I saw them beating someone, but I couldn't bear to watch."

The violence has affected Gbimsi, a predominantly Mamprusi community, which has been grappling with tensions from the Bawku clashes. Despite efforts to reach the North East Regional Police Command, officials have yet to comment on the situation.

Source: Lead News Online