The assassination of Abdul-Malik Azenbe, the Kusasi Chief and Kaadi Divisional Area Chief in the Bawku West District of the Upper East Region, has sent shockwaves through the community of Asawase and beyond. On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, unidentified gunmen on motorbikes ambushed the chief, firing at close range before fleeing the scene. This targeted attack has prompted a swift response from law enforcement, with Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno dispatching a specialized investigative team to uncover the circumstances surrounding the killing and bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident underscores the volatile security situation in the region and raises concerns about potential motives behind the assassination.
The Ashanti Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Emmanuel Teye-Cudjoe, has taken the lead in addressing the situation, offering reassurance to the grieving family and the public. He personally visited the bereaved family, expressing condolences and assuring them of the police’s unwavering commitment to apprehending the culprits. DCOP Teye-Cudjoe emphasized the thoroughness of the ongoing investigation, promising to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice. This commitment includes a meticulous examination of the crime scene, the collection of forensic evidence, and a comprehensive outreach to the community for information. He also confirmed that all necessary procedures have been completed to release the chief’s body to the family for burial, allowing them to begin the mourning process.
The details of the attack, as released by the police, paint a picture of a carefully planned ambush. The assailants, riding separate motorbikes, approached the chief at close range, suggesting a deliberate targeting. The rapid execution of the attack and their swift escape indicate a level of premeditation and familiarity with the area. Two spent shells, consistent with an AK-47 rifle, were recovered from the scene, providing crucial evidence that will be analyzed to help identify the weapon used and potentially link it to the perpetrators. The use of such a high-powered firearm further highlights the seriousness of the crime and raises questions about the accessibility of such weaponry.
The police, recognizing the gravity of the situation and its potential to incite unrest, have appealed for calm within the community. DCOP Teye-Cudjoe, accompanied by the Regional Crime Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Ebenezer Boyor, visited the crime scene to assess the situation firsthand. Their presence served not only as a demonstration of the police’s commitment to the investigation but also as a reassurance to the community. The police have emphasized the importance of public cooperation in solving this heinous crime, urging residents of Asawase and surrounding areas to come forward with any information that might assist in identifying and apprehending the suspects.
This appeal for public support is crucial to the success of the investigation. Local knowledge, eyewitness accounts, and even seemingly insignificant details can prove invaluable in piecing together the events leading up to the assassination and tracking down those responsible. The police have provided multiple channels for individuals to share information, including contacting the nearest police station or utilizing emergency numbers 191, 18555, or 112. This multi-pronged approach aims to ensure that anyone with relevant information can easily and safely communicate with the authorities. The police have also appealed to the media to exercise responsibility in their reporting, respecting the privacy of the grieving family and avoiding the dissemination of misinformation that could impede the investigation.
The assassination of Chief Abdul-Malik Azenbe represents a significant challenge to the security and stability of the region. The swift response from law enforcement, including the dispatch of a specialized investigative team, underscores the authorities’ commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. The police’s emphasis on community engagement and public cooperation recognizes the vital role that local knowledge plays in solving complex crimes. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining the course of the investigation and uncovering the motives behind this tragic event. The hope remains that through diligent investigation and community support, justice will be served, and the community can begin the process of healing and reconciliation. The incident also serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to address the underlying issues that contribute to violence and instability in the region.
