The Accra Regional Police Command has arrested a 21-year-old man in connection with the shooting and killing of a queenmother during a naming ceremony at Gbawe Zero, a suburb of Accra, on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

The deceased, 33-year-old Pearl Naa Dodoowa Whitaker, known in private life as Naa Agyinafo I of Papase, died instantly after being shot at close range.

Another woman, 38-year-old Priscilla Na Ayele, sustained a gunshot wound to the chest and is receiving treatment at the University of Ghana Medical Centre. She is reported to be in stable condition.

At a press briefing in Accra on Monday, July 7, the police identified the suspect as Gilbert Awuni Alia, alias Starboy, an okada rider from Dentsua.

He was arrested at Asokore in the Ashanti Region, where he had fled after the incident. The police stated that he was part of a group that fired weapons indiscriminately during the ceremony.

The naming event was organised by Ibrahim Ni Ayikwashi Solomon, also known as Nii Ayi Solomon, who had earlier reported the incident to the police.

He has since been arrested after admitting to authorising the use of firearms at the event, which was attended by traditional leaders and members of various Asafu groups.

Investigators suspect that the violence was triggered by the consumption of Sobo, a locally brewed drink, which may have been laced with narcotic substances. During interrogation, Starboy reportedly confessed to firing a weapon while under the influence of alcohol.

He claimed to have fled the scene with an accomplice known only as Oxygen. Police say the suspect told them he discarded the firearm, and efforts are underway to retrieve it.

A second accomplice has also been arrested. Officers have retrieved a locally manufactured weapon, along with spent cartridges and gunpowder, as part of their ongoing investigations.

The police condemned the unauthorised use of firearms at public events, warning that anyone found culpable will face prosecution.

“Possession and discharge of firearms without lawful authority is a serious offence,” the command stated.