Suspect arrested in fatal shooting of queenmother at Gbawe naming ceremony

The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested the prime suspect involved in the fatal shooting of Queenmother Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker during a naming ceremony at Gbawe Zero, Accra, on June 19, 2025.

According to police investigations, the tragic incident occurred during an event organized by Ibrahim Nii Aryee Quarshie Solomon, which was attended by traditional leaders and Asafo groups. At approximately 7:00 p.m., some individuals, armed with locally manufactured weapons, began firing indiscriminately into the crowd.

One of the shooters, identified as Gilbert Awuni, also known as “Starboy”, allegedly shot Queenmother Whitaker—aged 33 and a mother of two—at close range, striking her in the head and killing her instantly. A second victim, Priscilla Naa Aryeley, 38, a trader, was hit in the chest and remains on admission at the University of Ghana Medical Centre, where she is reported to be in stable condition.

Police say the shooters had reportedly consumed sobolo drinks laced with narcotics before the incident. After realizing the fatal outcome of his actions, Starboy fled the scene with an accomplice known as Oxygen, using a motorbike to escape and later seeking refuge in Asokore, Ashanti Region.

Following swift intelligence-led operations, officers from the Accra Regional Police Intelligence Directorate (PID), led by their Unit Commander, arrested Starboy in Asokore. The 21-year-old Okada rider and resident of Danchira confessed to firing the weapon while under the influence of alcohol and later discarding it. Efforts are ongoing to retrieve the firearm.

Earlier, the event organizer, Ibrahim Nii Aryee Quarshie Solomon, was arrested and admitted to authorizing the use of firearms during the ceremony. Another accomplice was also picked up, with police recovering a locally manufactured gun, empty cartridges, and gunpowder from the scene.

In a statement, the Ghana Police Service condemned the reckless and unlawful use of firearms at public and cultural events, stressing that such behavior endangers lives and public safety. The Command warned that the possession and discharge of firearms without lawful authority is a criminal offence and assured the public that all persons found culpable will be prosecuted.

The Police continue to appeal for information that may assist in arresting the remaining suspects and recovering the discarded weapon.