On the night of July 31, 2025, a devastating incident occurred in Techiman, when police officers allegedly raided the private residence of Ibrahim Baba Bukari, the Bono East Regional Chairman of the NPP.
The operation, which took place around 10:00 p.m., resulted in the tragic death of Bukari’s younger brother, Seidu Bakari, aged 36, who was reportedly shot and killed during the raid.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, Seidu Bakari was inside the residence with two other individuals when police stormed the premises. Chairman Bukari, in an interview, claimed that his brother was shot without provocation, describing the raid as an “unprovoked attack.”
The reasons for the police operation remain unclear, as the Ghana Police Service has yet to release an official statement explaining the rationale behind the raid or the circumstances leading to the fatal shooting.
The absence of clarity has intensified public and familial demands for accountability.
Chairman Bukari expressed profound shock and grief over the incident, stating, “I still don’t understand why they would carry out such an operation at my residence.”
He suspects the raid may have been politically motivated, potentially targeting him due to his prominent role within the NPP.
“I strongly suspect foul play and political machinations behind this,” Bukari said, adding that he now fears for his own safety.
“If they can do this to my brother inside my own house, then my life is equally in danger.”
Community Reaction and Calls for Justice
The death of Seidu Bakari has sent shockwaves through the Techiman community. Residents have expressed dismay and demanded that authorities provide immediate clarity on the reasons for the raid and the use of lethal force.
The body of Seidu Bakari has been deposited at a local morgue as investigations reportedly continue, though the lack of public comment from the police has only deepened mistrust.
Family members, alongside local residents, have called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
The allegations of political targeting have further heightened tensions, particularly given the history of concerns about police conduct in the Bono East Region.
In 2023, residents of Techiman and nearby areas raised alarms about the activities of the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID), accusing operatives of conducting arbitrary searches, arrests, and violent acts without court orders.
These earlier reports, which described “Rambo-style” operations and alleged abuses, have resurfaced in light of this incident, amplifying fears about unchecked police actions.
Context of Police Operations in Bono East
The Bono East Region has previously been at the center of controversies involving the Police Intelligence Directorate, which reportedly expanded its operations under Inspector-General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
Residents have accused PID operatives of conducting aggressive raids, often at odd hours, and subjecting individuals to inhumane treatment, including beatings and, in some cases, shootings.
These allegations, combined with the recent tragedy at Chairman Bukari’s home, have led to renewed calls for intervention by the Minister of Interior and the Presidency to address the conduct of police operatives in the region.
Political Implications
The incident comes at a time of heightened political sensitivity in Ghana, with the 2024 general elections having recently concluded. Chairman Bukari, a prominent figure in the NPP and known as the “Game Changer,” has been actively involved in regional politics, including promoting party candidates and advocating for development projects in Techiman North.
The suspicion of political motives behind the raid has raised concerns about the potential misuse of state institutions to target political opponents, a charge that remains unproven but widely discussed in the wake of this tragedy.
Moving Forward
As investigations into Seidu Bakari’s death continue, the incident has underscored the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and reform in police operations.
The Ghana Police Service faces mounting pressure to provide a detailed explanation of the raid, including the justification for entering Chairman Bukari’s home and the events leading to the fatal shooting.
Meanwhile, the people of Techiman mourn the loss of a community member and await answers that may bring justice and closure to a grieving family.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between law enforcement and civil liberties, particularly in politically charged environments.
Until the authorities provide clear answers, the incident will likely remain a flashpoint for discussions about police conduct, political neutrality, and the safety of citizens in Ghana’s Bono East Region.
