Is the Dark Period of Serial Killings of Night Security Guards Re-emerging in Wa?

File Photo

 Wa, the regional capital of the Upper West Region was shattered on Sunday morning following the brutal killing of Yahya Issa, popularly known as Soja, a 55-year-old night security guard at the Dobile, a suburb of Wa. The incident has raised deep concerns among residents and security officials alike, reigniting fears of a possible resurgence of violence against night security personnel in the municipality.

The Lifeless Body of Yahya Issa

The Wa police have since transferred the victim’s body to the Upper West Regional Hospital mortuary for autopsy and further investigations. The incident marks a troubling chapter in Wa’s recent history, echoing a series of violent attacks on security personnel in the past.

In 2022, Wa experienced a series of murders targeting private security guards, leading to heightened police patrols and community vigilance. These events had cast a shadow of fear over the municipality, prompting calls for improved security infrastructure and community engagement.

The re-emergence of such violence raises critical questions: Are we witnessing the return of a dark period characterized by serial killings of night security guards? Or is this an isolated incident that underscores the need for enhanced security measures?

The Wa Municipal Chief Executive, Issah Nura Danwana, confirmed the disturbing news to the press on Sunday, revealing that he was promptly informed by National Security officials and rushed to the scene. Describing the murder as deeply troubling, Danwana emphasized ongoing security challenges in parts of Wa, citing poor lighting and other infrastructural issues. Notably, the crime scene was located only about 400 meters from a police station and near the Wa Market, raising questions about the effectiveness of security measures in the area.

The Assembly Member for the Dobile Electoral Area, Zakaria Ibrahim, who visited the scene shortly after the incident, expressed shock over the killing. In an Interview with Info Radio, he confirmed that Yahya Issa was serving as a night watchman at the market. Ibrahim recalled that the municipality had previously experienced similar violent incidents, although he emphasized that, unlike past cases, this time no body parts were removed—a detail that, while somewhat relieving, does little to quell the growing anxiety among residents.

While investigations are ongoing by the Wa police, the incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms in Wa. Residents and security experts alike are calling on authorities to address infrastructural deficiencies, improve lighting, and deploy more personnel to safeguard the community.

As the Upper West Regional Police continue to investigate, community leaders are also urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The hope is that this tragic event will serve as a wake-up call to prevent further loss of life and restore peace and confidence in Wa’s safety.

The killing of Yahya Issa has rekindled fears of a serial killer targeting security personnel in Wa, reminiscent of the dark days of 2022. Whether this marks the beginning of a new wave of violence or remains an isolated incident, one thing is clear: the safety of security guards and the community at large must be prioritized to prevent history from repeating itself.