The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team came under heavy gunfire during an intelligence-led raid at the Aboabo Forest enclave in the Tamale Metropolis of the Northern Region, resulting in a deadly exchange and the arrest of multiple suspects.
According to a police report, the team was advancing through the enclave in search of criminal gangs involved in robbery, illicit drug trafficking, and violent attacks when a group of armed men opened fire on officers.
“The attack placed the lives of team members in immediate danger. Acting in line with police rules of engagement and legitimate self-defence protocols, the officers returned fire to neutralise the threat,” the report noted.
During the exchange, one suspect was struck, while the remaining gunmen fled with their weapons as reinforcements closed in. Officers moved in to assist the injured suspect and transported him to the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His body has since been deposited at the mortuary pending autopsy.
Police say the confrontation validates earlier intelligence indicating that criminal elements operating within the forest enclave are heavily armed and prepared to resist arrest.
Community Engagement Before the Operation
Earlier in the day, the Special Operations Team paid a courtesy call on Sheikh Basha, leader of Masjidul Bayan, and other Imams and opinion leaders in the metropolis. The visit, led by ASP Bawah Abdul Jalil, involved 50 personnel and eight service vehicles, including a Black Maria.
ASP Abdul Jalil briefed the religious leaders on the team’s mandate to combat robbery, rape, drug peddling, attacks on mobile money vendors, and other national security threats. Sheikh Basha offered prayers, encouragement, and full support for the police, commending their efforts to enhance community safety.
Five Arrested and Drug Substances Seized in Follow-Up Raid
Following the engagement, the team proceeded to Sanzhirigu, where intelligence pointed to a house being used for the sale and consumption of illicit drugs. Officers arrested five suspects and seized quantities of dried leaves believed to be Indian hemp, along with bottles of Koffex cough syrup, often misused as a narcotic substance.
Further intelligence led officers to the Aboabo Forest hideout, where the armed confrontation unfolded.
High Professional Standards Maintained
The police report emphasized that the IGP Special Operations Team maintained strict discipline, tactical coordination, and adherence to rules of engagement throughout the day’s operations.
Their professionalism, even under armed attack, has reinforced public confidence in the ongoing crackdown on violent crime and criminal networks within the Tamale Metropolis.
Authorities say operations will continue to dismantle criminal gangs and safeguard communities across the region.
