In the Upper West Region’s Lambussie District, authorities have declared a curfew on Hamile Township and surrounding communities following a tragic explosion that claimed the life of an immigration officer and a teenage passenger, while another officer was left critically injured.
The curfew, effective immediately, bars residents from leaving their homes between 6:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. daily. The Ministry of the Interior announced the measure on Tuesday, November 3, stating it was enacted on the advice of the National Security Council through an Executive Instrument.
In tandem, the government has banned the possession of firearms, ammunition and other offensive weapons in the affected areas, warning that offenders will face arrest and prosecution.
Preliminary accounts say immigration officers were patrolling near the Ghana‑Burkina Faso border when they spotted three suspected smugglers transporting goods toward Burkina Faso. During a chase, gunfire reportedly struck items believed to be explosives on a motor tricycle, triggering the blast.
The explosion instantly killed the immigration officer and a teenager riding on the tricycle. A second officer sustained critical injuries, and an elderly suspect suffered serious wounds. All were rushed to Nandom Hospital for treatment.
Authorities are investigating the incident while urging residents to stay indoors during the curfew hours. The curfew will remain in force until further notice, with officials monitoring the situation closely.
