The Ghanaian government has imposed a curfew on Hamile township and its surrounding communities in the Lambussie District of the Upper West Region, effective immediately. The curfew, which was announced by the Ministry of the Interior on November 3, 2026, runs from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. daily. This move follows security concerns in the area, with the Minister for the Interior imposing the restriction on the advice of the National Security Council and by Executive Instrument.
In addition to the curfew, the Ministry of the Interior has also announced a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, and other offensive weapons in Hamile and its surrounding communities. The government warned that anyone found in possession of such weapons would be arrested and prosecuted. This decision was made to help maintain peace and stability in the area, which has been experiencing security challenges.
The curfew announcement comes on the same day as a tragic incident in which an officer of the Ghana Immigration Service died, while another sustained critical injuries, in an explosion at Hamile. The explosion reportedly involved a motor tricycle suspected to have been carrying dynamite and was being used by people suspected to be Burkinabè nationals who had moved into Ghana to acquire the dynamite for suspected illegal mining activities.
The government has appealed to chiefs, opinion leaders, the youth, and residents of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting the community. It urged them to channel their grievances through non-violent means to help maintain peace in the area. The government is working to address the security concerns and ensure the safety of residents in Hamile and its surrounding communities.
The Ministry of the Interior's statement did not provide further details on the number of security personnel deployed to the area or the expected duration of the curfew. However, it emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents in the region. The curfew and ban on arms possession are expected to help reduce the risk of violence and promote a peaceful environment.
The incident at Hamile has raised concerns about the security situation in the Upper West Region, particularly with regards to illegal mining activities. The government has been working to address the issue of illegal mining, which has been a major challenge in the region. The imposition of the curfew and ban on arms possession is part of efforts to restore order and maintain peace in the area.
The government has assured residents of Hamile and its surrounding communities of its commitment to addressing the security challenges and ensuring their safety. The Ministry of the Interior will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures to maintain peace and stability in the area. Residents are advised to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activities to help maintain a safe and secure environment.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has imposed a 6pm-5am curfew on Hamile township and banned arms possession amid security concerns.
- The curfew and ban on arms possession follow an explosion at Hamile that killed one Ghana Immigration Service officer and injured another.
- The government has appealed to residents to exercise restraint and channel grievances through non-violent means to maintain peace in the area.
