GhanaWeb Feature by: Eugenia Diabah

In 2022, the atmosphere in Wa was tense and fearful. The death of a security man, with some parts of his body missing, initially seemed like a typical crime but quickly escalated into a matter of grave concern.

The killings were linked to ritual murder, as the bodies of the victims, primarily security personnel, were found with certain body parts, mainly their genitals, removed.

Approximately nine security men met their untimely deaths at the hands of these ruthless serial killers, who remain at large. The once peaceful environment of Wa became plagued with fear, and residents went to bed each night, wondering which security man would be next.

Numerous media houses nationwide reported the issue, highlighting the dire situation and calling for authorities to take action. The Ghana Police Service responded on September 17, 2022, with a press statement assuring the public that security measures in Wa had been intensified.

What further action did the Ghana Police Service take?

In September, following the discovery of a private officer's body with missing genitals and a slashed stomach, the Upper West Regional Command took action. The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and his team visited Wa shortly after that to devise strategies to address the situation.

However, there were confirmed reports that a similar incident had occurred on the day the IGP arrived in Wa.

While the security service has yet to disclose its findings, it is evident that the IGP's visit led to the arrest of a suspect, which temporarily halted the mysterious killings for almost a year and a few months until 2024.

Are we about to watch season two of the Serial Killings in Wa?

It appears the murderers are resurfacing, now extending their reach to Bole. Earlier this year, Bole, in the neighbouring Savannah Region, reported the death of a security officer. On June 18, 2024, two night watchmen were murdered at their posts on the same night in Wa.

Residents are now plagued by the fear that their worst nightmare is returning to haunt them.

The police are seen as the protectors of the community, and there have been calls from chiefs and locals for the police to release their findings from 2022 and treat the issue as a national concern.

The Ghana Police should not remain silent until more lives are lost. The security personnel claim to have reinforced the area, but how effective is this increased security?

The MP for Wa has offered a GHC100,000 bounty for anyone who can help capture those responsible for these heinous crimes.

A recent murder in Bole, reported by TV3's News @ 7 on Sunday, July 7, involved a man who was decapitated, with other body parts taken.

In just a few short days, the number of deaths has risen to four, and this trend will likely continue if no action is taken.

As part of measures taken by authorities in Wa, the MP has placed a GHC100,000 bounty on information leading to the arrest of those behind these crimes.

The people are living in fear; the time to act is now!