Mamprusi Youth Association demands probe into alleged custodial killing

The Accra Chapter of the Mamprusi Youth Association has called for an independent investigation into the alleged killing of Abdul-Aziz Iddrisu, a Bawku resident who the group claims died while in police custody.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Friday March 13, 2026, Youth Leader and security consultant Mumuni Yakubu Nambe described the circumstances surrounding Iddrisu’s death as troubling and urged authorities to provide clarity and accountability.

According to the association, Iddrisu, 33, also known as Baaluuse, was arrested on February 17, 2026, in a suburb of Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region together with two of his siblings.

The Ghana Police Service had earlier announced the arrest, stating that the suspect was assisting investigations into a December 29, 2025 attack on police officers at the Karimenga barrier in Bawku, during which one officer Seth Oppong Damoah was killed and two others injured.

Bawku Conflict: Details of Asantehene's final mediation session

The Mamprusi Youth Association said the two siblings arrested with Iddrisu were granted bail the following day, while Iddrisu was reportedly transferred to Accra for further investigations.

The family subsequently engaged human rights lawyer Martin Kpebu to represent him.

According to the association, “attempts by representatives of the lawyer and family members to locate Iddrisu at several state security institutions, including the Criminal Investigation Department and the National Intelligence Bureau, were unsuccessful.”

They further claimed that a formal request sent to the Inspector-General of Police seeking access to the suspect initially received no response.

Speaking at the press conference, Nambe said “the association had been informed that during a subsequent meeting with the lawyer, the police chief indicated verbally that Iddrisu had been shot dead by officers.”

However, the group said no official written statement had been issued to the family and no details had been publicly provided about the circumstances of the alleged death.

The Mamprusi Youth Association said the situation raises serious questions about due process and respect for human rights.

The group called on the government and relevant institutions to provide a full public account of what happened, including the time, location and circumstances surrounding the alleged killing.

They also demanded an independent post-mortem examination to be conducted at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital or 37 Military Hospital, with the participation of the family.

In addition, the association urged authorities to investigate any officers who may have been involved and to ensure accountability where wrongdoing is established.

The group also expressed concern about tensions linked to the long-standing Bawku Chieftaincy Conflict, warning that unresolved allegations of abuse by security forces could undermine peace efforts in the area.

They appealed to state institutions, civil society organisations and the international community to support efforts aimed at ensuring justice and maintaining stability.

AM

Meanwhile, learn of the story of the man behind the iconic Akwaaba frames in Ghana: