The Ghana Police Service has firmly refuted media reports alleging that officers raided the private residence of Mr. Ibrahim Baba Bukari, the Bono East Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—an operation which was reportedly linked to the death of a civilian.
In a statement released over the weekend, the Police described the claims as completely false and misleading, emphasizing that no such raid on Mr. Bukari’s home took place.
“We wish to categorically state that the claim is false. The Police have not undertaken any such raid,” the official statement read.
🔍 What Actually Happened? — Police Clarify the Events
According to the Ghana Police Service, the confusion appears to stem from a robbery incident that took place in the early hours of Friday, August 1, 2025, around 1:00 a.m.
Key Details of the Incident:
- Officers from the Regional Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) were deployed following actionable intelligence on an ongoing robbery operation.
- The operation occurred in Techiman, where suspects were caught in the act.
- Some of the robbers were reportedly scaling a wall to escape when police arrived.
During the intervention, the officers opened fire when the suspects attempted to flee. One of the suspected robbers was shot and critically injured, and was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
👤 Deceased Linked to Notorious Robbery Gang
The deceased individual was not an innocent bystander, according to investigators. He was identified as a member of a well-known criminal gang with a history of motorbike thefts in Techiman and surrounding towns, who often resold stolen bikes in Kumasi.
“Investigations confirm that the gang had returned to Techiman that night for a similar operation when they were intercepted by the Police,” the statement said.
Recovered Evidence:
- A motorbike, believed to be stolen
- Break-in tools and other implements linked to past criminal activities
🏠 Why the Confusion? Operation Near Chairman’s Home
In a twist, Police later confirmed that the location of the incident was in close proximity to the residence of Mr. Ibrahim Baba Bukari, the NPP Bono East Regional Chairman. However, the service stressed that his house was not the target of the operation, nor was he in any way linked to the suspects or their activities.
“Investigations later revealed that the affected house belonged to Mr. Ibrahim Baba Bukari,” the statement noted, emphasizing that this was coincidental and not indicative of any wrongdoing on the chairman’s part.
🕵️ National Security Response
To ensure full transparency and prevent misinformation, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has deployed a special task force to the region. The team includes officers from:
- The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters
- The Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB)
- The Police Intelligence Directorate Headquarters
This move is intended to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the events and to clarify the facts amid conflicting reports.
📢 Police Urge Responsible Reporting
In concluding their statement, the Police Service called on the media and general public to refrain from circulating unverified information, especially in situations that can unnecessarily heighten political tensions or undermine public trust in national institutions.
“We encourage all citizens and media outlets to seek clarification from official sources before publishing sensitive information,” the Police stated.
🧭 Summary
| Claim | Reality According to Police |
|---|---|
| Police raided Mr. Bukari’s house | False – Police were responding to a robbery nearby |
| Civilian killed at politician’s home | False – A robbery suspect died during the police response |
| Mr. Bukari involved in incident | False – He has no link to the robbers or operation |
📝 Final Word
This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in balancing public safety, political sensitivities, and media narratives. While the Police continue their manhunt for the remaining suspects, the public is urged to allow the investigations to proceed without undue speculation.
The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the rule of law.
STORY BY: KENNEDY AMPONSAH NTI
EASTERN FM 105.1 MHZ
