The Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has banned motorbike operations between 7:00 pm and 6:00 am and prohibited passenger transport during daytime, effective immediately.
The measures follow the July 2025 murders of a Kusasi chief and his brother in Asawase, intensifying security concerns across Ghana’s most populous region.
REGSEC additionally barred riders from wearing smocks, bulky jackets, or multi-piece outfits that could conceal weapons. According to the council, the directives aim to curb criminal activities exploiting motorcycle mobility.
The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Caucus condemned the government’s security response as inadequate. In a July 26 statement signed by Caucus Secretary Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the NPP demanded urgent investigations into the killings, increased police deployments, and transparent safety commitments from Interior Minister Henry Quartey—whose constituency includes affected areas.
“Ghanaians deserve protection, not partisan reactions,” the statement read, urging REGSEC and national authorities to address the “rising fear” threatening citizens. The ruling NDC administration has not yet responded publicly to the criticisms.
STATEMENT BY THE NPP ASHANTI PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS ON THE WORSENING SECURITY SITUATION IN THE ASHANTI REGION
26th July 2025
For Immediate Release
The NPP Ashanti Parliamentary Caucus is deeply alarmed by the recent rise in violent crime across the region. In the last few days alone, the Kusasi Chief of Asawase was brutally murdered in his home, followed closely by the killing of his brother. These incidents are not isolated; they represent a dangerous trend that threatens the safety and peace of law-abiding citizens.
We are not making demands for special treatment. We are demanding what every Ghanaian deserves: protection, swift justice, and a state that responds when lives are at risk. The rising fear and growing sense of insecurity must be addressed without delay.
We call on the Ashanti Regional Security Council under the leadership of the Regional Minister to step up its response and ensure that robust and proactive measures are taken immediately. We also urge the Inspector General of Police to treat these killings with the urgency they demand. Ghanaians across the country deserve to feel safe, and Ashanti is no exception.
To the Minister for the Interior, whose own constituency is directly affected, this is the time to lead with presence and action. Moments like this define leadership. Silence is not an option.
We are calling for the following actions without delay:
1. A full criminal investigation into the recent murders with timely and transparent updates to the public
2. Deployment of adequate police personnel and intelligence resources to safeguard vulnerable communities
3. A clear and public commitment from the Ministry of the Interior and the Police Service on measures being taken to prevent further violence
This is a moment that calls for national responsibility, not partisan reaction. The safety of our people is a fundamental duty of the state. We will continue to raise our voices, not for political gain, but because our people deserve to live without fear.
Signed
Hon. Vincent Ekow Assafuah Esq.
Secretary, NPP Ashanti Parliamentary Caucus
