The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested the prime suspect in the deadly shooting that disrupted a naming ceremony in Gbawe Zero, claiming the life of a traditional queen and seriously injuring another woman.
The incident, which occurred on June 19, 2025, turned what should have been a joyous occasion into a scene of chaos and tragedy.
Police have identified the suspect as Gilbert Awuni, a 21-year-old commercial motorcyclist, popularly known as Starboy. He is accused of shooting Queen Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker, the 33-year-old queen of Papaase, at close range, killing her instantly. A second victim, Priscilla Naa Aryeley, 38, was shot in the chest and is currently receiving treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre.
The naming ceremony, organised by Ibrahim Nii Aryee Quarshie Solomon, was attended by traditional leaders and Asafo groups. According to police reports, several attendees were allegedly under the influence of sobolo drinks laced with narcotics. Around 7:00 p.m., some individuals began firing locally manufactured weapons, sparking panic.
Investigators say Starboy aimed and fired his weapon directly at Queen Whitaker, then fled the scene on a motorbike with an accomplice known as Oxygen. The pair headed to Asokore in the Ashanti Region, where Starboy was later arrested during a police operation.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to firing the shot while under the influence of alcohol and claimed to have discarded the firearm afterward. Efforts are ongoing to locate and retrieve the weapon.
Event organiser Ibrahim Quarshie Solomon was previously arrested and granted police enquiry bail after admitting he authorised the use of firearms at the ceremony. Another accomplice was also taken into custody, and police recovered a locally manufactured gun, spent cartridges, and gunpowder from the scene.
In a statement, the Ghana Police Service strongly condemned the reckless use of firearms at public and cultural events, warning that possessing or discharging weapons without lawful authority is a serious criminal offence.
The Command urged the public to report similar behaviour and reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety and justice in all communities.
By Peter Quao Adattor
