Police Re-Arrest Key Suspect in Fatal Shooting of Officers at Kariminga Police Barrier

The Ghana Police Service has re-arrested a key suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of police officers at the Kariminga police barrier in the Upper East Region, marking a major breakthrough in a case that has deeply affected the nation’s security services.

The suspect, Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu, a 33-year-old man also known as Baaluuse, was apprehended in the early hours of 17 February 2026 following a coordinated, intelligence-led operation. The operation was carried out by officers from the National Police Intelligence Directorate in Accra in collaboration with the Upper East Regional Police Intelligence Department.

Iddrisu had been on the police wanted list since 29 December 2025, when a deadly attack occurred at the Kariminga police barrier. During that incident, General Constable Seth Oppong Damoah was shot and killed in the line of duty, while General Corporals Nyanku Charles and Abu Moro sustained serious gunshot injuries. The attack shocked the country and triggered a nationwide manhunt for those responsible.

According to police sources, the suspect was traced to a hideout in Polego, a suburb of Bolgatanga, after months of surveillance and intelligence gathering. The arrest was carried out without resistance, and Iddrisu was immediately taken into custody for further investigations.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect may be linked to one of the feuding factions involved in the long-running Bawku chieftaincy conflict, a dispute that has frequently erupted into violent clashes in parts of the Upper East Region. Security analysts believe the ongoing conflict has created an environment where armed groups and criminal networks can operate with increased boldness.

During the arrest operation, police reportedly recovered mobile phones belonging to the suspect. A forensic review of the devices is said to have uncovered videos, audio recordings, and messages allegedly connecting Iddrisu and others to violent activities linked to the conflict. Some of the materials reportedly include footage of assault rifles and pistols, as well as communications requesting additional weapons and ammunition for use in clashes.

Police officials have confirmed that the suspect is currently assisting with investigations. Authorities are also intensifying efforts to track down his alleged accomplices, including an individual identified only as “Mark,” who is believed to still be at large.

The Ghana Police Service has described the re-arrest as a significant step toward justice for the fallen officer and the injured colleagues who survived the attack. Senior officers emphasized that attacks on law enforcement personnel will not be tolerated and that all those involved will be pursued and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The case has reignited national conversations about the safety of police officers, particularly those stationed at checkpoints and barriers in conflict-prone مناطق. Many civil society groups and security experts have called for improved protection for officers on duty, including better equipment, intelligence support, and rapid response systems.

Public reaction to the arrest has been largely supportive, with many citizens expressing relief that a key suspect has been brought back into custody. Social media platforms have been filled with messages calling for justice for the slain officer and accountability for all those connected to the attack.

As investigations continue, authorities have appealed to the public to provide any information that could assist in preventing further violence and lead to the arrest of remaining suspects. The police have also reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and stability in the Upper East Region and other conflict-affected areas.

The re-arrest of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu represents a major development in a case that symbolized the dangers faced by security personnel in volatile مناطق. While the legal process moves forward, the incident stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and the importance of sustained efforts to combat violent crime and instability across the country.

Source: Thepressradio.com