The Greater Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a prime suspect in connection with the fatal shooting at a naming ceremony held at Gbawe Zero on June 19, 2025, which claimed the life of a 33-year-old Queen Mother and left another attendee in critical condition.
The arrest was confirmed at a police press briefing detailing the ongoing investigation and the events leading up to the tragic incident. According to the police, the shooting occurred around 7 p.m. during a naming ceremony organised by Ibrahim Nii Ayi Quarshie Solomon.
“The event, attended by traditional leaders and Asafo groups, turned chaotic when a group of armed individuals began firing indiscriminately”
Greater Accra Regional Police Command
The celebratory atmosphere quickly descended into horror when one of the shooters allegedly fired at close range, striking Queen Mother Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker in the head and killing her instantly.
Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker, a Queenmother of Papase, was 33 years old. A second victim, 38-year-old trader Priscilla Naa Ayele, “sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and was rushed to the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC).” Police report that she is currently in stable condition.
Investigators have identified the shooter as 21-year-old Gilbert Awini, alias “Starboy”, who works as an Okada rider and resides in Densho, Accra. According to the police, Awini was seen consuming Sobolo, a local hibiscus drink, which is suspected to have been laced with narcotic substances before the incident.
Escape and Arrest
Following the shooting, Awini fled the scene on a motorbike with an accomplice known only as “Oxygen”. They reportedly headed towards Asokore in the Ashanti Region, where Awini sought refuge.
Acting on intelligence gathered by the Accra Regional Police Intelligence Team, a special operation was launched after him – a team of officers dispatched to Asokore who successfully arrested Awini.
During interrogation, “the suspect confessed to discharging the weapon,” under the influence of alcohol. He admitted to fleeing immediately after the act and claimed to have discarded the firearm. Efforts are currently underway to recover the weapon.
At the press briefing, the police confirmed the nature of the attack and clarified the series of events. They indicated that the shooting was not premeditated but occurred under circumstances aggravated by the influence of substances consumed by the suspect.
The Police Command emphasised that investigations are ongoing and that further arrests may be made. They also noted that the suspect will face appropriate charges once the investigation is concluded and urged the public to support the ongoing process by providing relevant information.
Security Concerns
The shooting has raised serious concerns about the security arrangements at public gatherings and traditional ceremonies.
With the Queenmother’s death sending shockwaves through the local chieftaincy and traditional authority circles, questions are being asked about how armed individuals could enter and operate so freely at a community event.
In its briefing, the police advised event organisers to coordinate closely with security agencies ahead of any large gatherings, especially those involving prominent traditional figures. The public was also reminded of the dangers associated with unregulated consumption of local beverages that may be tampered with.
Authorities have appealed for calm in the affected community, assuring residents that the matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness. The police further confirmed that no stone would be left unturned in securing justice for the victims.
While the death of Queenmother Whitaker marks a significant loss for the community, the swift action taken by the police in tracking and apprehending the suspect has been commended by residents and community leaders alike.
The Ghana Police Service continues to caution against the possession and use of firearms at public events and has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens.
The search for the weapon used in the attack continues, as the suspect claims to have discarded it after the incident, and the police have assured the public that updates will be provided as the case develops.
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