IGP Yohuno Explains Withdrawal of Black Maria from Tamale: “A Special Team Doesn’t Become a Permanent Team”
Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has clarified the decision to withdraw the Police Special Operations Taskforce, popularly known as “Black Maria,” from the Tamale metropolis, following youth-led street protests calling for the unit’s immediate return.
Addressing members of the Special Operations Taskforce at a gathering in Accra on Monday, March 9, 2026, the IGP emphasized that the unit was never intended to serve as a permanent fixture in any location. He explained that its deployment to Tamale was mission-specific, and once the assigned objectives were achieved, the team was redeployed in line with standard operational protocol.
“When you say a special team, it doesn’t become a permanent team. You go somewhere, you perform your duties, leave the rest for the local police to do, and then you move on to another place,” IGP Yohuno stated.
The Black Maria unit, known for its high-impact operations in tackling violent crime, armed robbery, and other serious security threats, had been stationed in Tamale to support local police in addressing escalating insecurity in parts of the Northern Region.
The IGP stressed that the withdrawal does not reflect any failure or reduced commitment to security in Tamale. Instead, he noted that the local police have been strengthened and equipped to handle day-to-day law enforcement, allowing the specialized taskforce to be redirected to other areas facing similar or emerging challenges.
The decision, however, triggered public discontent, particularly among some youth in Tamale who staged demonstrations demanding the unit’s reinstatement, citing its perceived effectiveness in restoring calm and deterring criminal activity.
IGP Yohuno acknowledged the community’s appreciation for the taskforce’s work but reiterated that the Ghana Police Service operates with strategic flexibility. Special units like Black Maria are deployed tactically and temporarily to support, not replace, regular policing structures.
He assured the public that the Police Service remains fully committed to maintaining peace and security across the country, including in the Northern Region, through ongoing collaboration between specialized teams and local commands.
The IGP’s explanation comes as the service continues to balance public expectations with operational realities in managing nationwide security demands.
