Dagbon youth group petitions IGP over planned withdrawal of ‘Black Maria’ police taskforce

In the letter dated March 4, 2026, and addressed to the IGP in Accra, the youth group expressed deep concern over reports that some individuals had allegedly petitioned the police administration to withdraw the Special Operations Team currently operating in the Northern Region to combat drug trafficking and other criminal activities

The association stated that the youth of Dagbon have suffered for years from the devastating impact of illicit drug abuse, particularly the widespread misuse of tramadol and other substances, which they say has severely affected the social and economic fabric of their communities.

According to the group, drug addiction has destroyed families, disrupted the education of many young people, and weakened the prospects of an entire generation.

Against this backdrop, DAYA said the deployment of the Special Operations Team in late 2025 brought renewed hope to communities across Dagbon.

The team, led by DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, a native was sent to the Northern Region after growing public concern over rising cases of armed robbery, vehicle theft, drug peddling, and attacks on traders and mobile money vendors, particularly in the Tamale metropolis.

According to the association, the operations of the taskforce have led to visible improvements in security within several communities.

Members of the group noted that open drug peddling has significantly reduced since the team began its work, while residents have regained a sense of safety that had previously been eroded by criminal activities.

DAYA recalled that on December 25, 2025, the youth group publicly commended DSP Abdul Jalil and his team for their efforts in tackling crime and confronting drug networks that had long operated with relative impunity in the region.

However, the group said it was shocked to learn of what it described as “unconfirmed reports” that certain individuals were lobbying for the withdrawal of the police taskforce.

The association condemned such alleged moves, describing them as self-serving attempts to protect criminal interests rather than safeguard the welfare of communities.

“These individuals do not speak for the people of Dagbon and certainly do not represent the voice of the youth,” the letter stated, adding that anyone who seeks to undermine legitimate law enforcement operations aimed at curbing drug abuse and criminal activity cannot be considered a friend of the people.

The association further argued that any interference with the operations of the Special Operations Team could embolden criminal networks and reverse the security gains achieved since the deployment of the taskforce.

DAYA therefore called on the Inspector-General of Police to disregard any petitions or lobbying efforts seeking the withdrawal of the unit. Instead, the group urged the police administration to strengthen the mandate and logistical support of the team so it can continue its operations in the Northern Region.

The youth group also appealed to traditional authorities, civil society organizations, and the media to support efforts aimed at protecting communities from the dangers of drug abuse and organized crime.

“Let it be known that the youth of Dagbon are awake, organized, and determined to resist any attempt to return our communities to the darkness from which we are just beginning to emerge,” the statement said.

The letter was signed by Alhaji Jagbo Basko, General Secretary of the Dagbamba Youth Association, who reaffirmed the group’s commitment to protecting the welfare and future of young people in Dagbon.

The development adds another dimension to the ongoing public debate in the Northern Region over the role and future of the Special Operations Team, whose activities have been credited by many residents with helping to curb crime but have also attracted controversy amid reports of political pressure surrounding its deployment.