Tension is mounting in the Greater Tamale Metropolis after a man believed to be in his early forties was allegedly shot and killed by the Special Operations Team deployed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to clamp down on criminal activity in the area.

The incident occurred during a swoop at Poloya Fong forest, a suburb of Tamale, where the police launched an operation to flush out suspected criminals. The man, said to be a passerby attempting to flee on his motorbike amid sporadic gunfire, was reportedly struck by a stray bullet and died instantly.

Tamale MCE Describes Police Action as “Unfortunate”

Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive, Abu Takoro, who also chairs the Metropolitan Security Committee (MUSEC), expressed concern over what he described as growing excesses in the ongoing security operations.

The MCE acknowledged that although the special operations team has contributed to maintaining security in the metropolis, recent incidents are threatening the peace of the city.

“We were happy when we heard of the IGP’s special operation team, and in fact their work has been helpful. However, the burning of tricycles at Nobisco forest and the shooting and killing of the young man is unfortunate,” he said.

He confirmed that MUSEC has met and submitted a report to the IGP, urging a thorough and transparent investigation into the killing.

Police Confirm Incident, Cite Self-Defense

The Northern Regional Police Command, in a statement signed by Chief Inspector Alhassan Lukman, confirmed the death, stating that the police acted in self-defense after being shot at during the operation.

According to the statement:

• The incident occurred on Monday, December 1, 2025.
• One suspect engaged the police in a crossfire situation.
• The suspect sustained gunshot injuries and was later confirmed dead.
• His body has been deposited at the Tamale Teaching Hospital for autopsy and further investigations.

Earlier Operation Saw Tricycles and Motorbikes Burnt

This latest killing follows a similar operation on Thursday, November 27, when the IGP’s team stormed the Nobisco forest, burning tricycles and motorbikes allegedly belonging to drug trafficking suspects.

The string of heavy-handed operations has left parts of the Tamale Metropolis on edge, with residents and local leaders calling for accountability and restraint as investigations continue.