Government has intensified security efforts along the Walewale-Bolgatanga Highway by deploying military personnel and drones to curb rising attacks on passenger buses.

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Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, made this known in Parliament on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, while responding to concerns raised by the Member of Parliament for Walewale regarding escalating robberies and vehicle burnings in the North East Region.

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According to Mr. Muntaka Mubarak, although Walewale has seen a steady decline in armed robbery cases—from 30 incidents in 2022 to 18 in 2024—the attacks targeting passenger buses remain a pressing concern.

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He linked the recent surge in highway violence to the ongoing Bawku chieftaincy conflict, explaining that the unrest was spilling over into surrounding areas and contributing to insecurity along the route.

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To address the situation, the government imposed a curfew on Walewale and its environs on February 15, 2025, while also reinforcing security operations in the area.

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In addition to the military deployment, extra police officers have been dispatched from Tamale to support the Walewale District Command. The government has also increased logistical support, including the provision of more patrol vehicles.

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Furthermore, three police bases have been established in Walewale, Janga, and Gombiliga, each manned by 30 officers to enhance security patrols. To protect traders, police escorts have been introduced for market women traveling to and from Walewale’s markets.

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Despite these interventions, Mr. Muntaka Mubarak acknowledged that no arrests had been made in connection with this year’s robbery incidents. He noted that tracking suspects had been challenging due to the widespread use of motorbikes in the area but remained optimistic about the impact of the new surveillance measures.

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“I will continue engaging the police, and with drone surveillance now in place, I believe we will see improvements. But as of now, I have no information on arrests,” he said.

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Authorities remain hopeful that these enhanced security measures will restore safety along the highway and deter further attacks.

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