Police Officers threaten resignation over rising dangers in Bawku – Interior Minister

The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has revealed that several police officers deployed to the Bawku enclave are considering resigning if their requests for transfers are not approved.

He explained that the worsening security situation in the area has made postings extremely hazardous, with some officers at checkpoints reportedly attacked and killed over the past three months amid ongoing unrest.

Addressing Parliament on Tuesday, February 10, Mr Muntaka urged lawmakers from affected constituencies to collaborate closely with security agencies to restore calm and ensure safer working conditions for officers on the ground.

“I have had instances where some officers say that if you don’t transfer me from that area, I will rather resign. Why? Because the citizens themselves over there are not helpful. People have the courage to go and openly fire at police officers and kill them at checkpoints. At one point, the IGP had to withdraw all police officers from checkpoints,” he stated.

He clarified that the withdrawal was temporary and not a long-term solution, emphasising that officers’ protection should be reinforced rather than abandoning posts.

“I had to insist that the answer is not to withdraw but rather position them with armoured vehicles. As MPs, we need to work with these security people so that we can create an enabling environment in the area where they can assist and protect us,” he added.

The Interior Minister’s remarks highlight the increasing risks faced by security personnel in Bawku, where ongoing disturbances continue to endanger both officers and civilians, prompting calls for stronger cooperation between community leaders, lawmakers, and law enforcement to restore stability.

Kwaku Antwi Boasiako