Renowned Ghanaian artist and founder of the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art (SCCA) and Red Clay Studio, Ibrahim Mahama, has alleged that he was assaulted in Tamale by individuals believed to be members of the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as “Black Maria.”
The incident reportedly occurred during a traffic situation near the Mariam Hotel, where congestion had built up due to ongoing Eid prayers at a nearby school.
According to Mahama, the confrontation escalated into a physical assault, leaving him with multiple injuries. He disclosed that he suffered dental damage, including the loss of a tooth, while two other teeth were also affected.
Mahama was subsequently treated at Habana Hospital, where he received medical attention before being discharged. He is currently awaiting further dental care to address the extent of the injuries sustained.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Channel One News, the artist recounted the events leading up to the alleged attack, stating that tensions arose amid the traffic disruption linked to the Eid celebrations.
He further claimed that the individuals involved in the incident were members of the “Black Maria” unit, a specialised police team often associated with high-level operations.
Mahama added that his uncle, who was driving the vehicle at the time of the incident, was also injured during the altercation.
However, the claims have been strongly denied by the leadership of the unit. DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, Commander of the IGP Special Operations Team, stated in a separate interview that neither he nor his personnel were involved in the alleged assault.
He acknowledged that members of the team were present in Tamale for the Eid al-Fitr celebrations but insisted they had no direct connection to the incident.
According to him, preliminary information suggests that the altercation may have involved some youth in the area, rather than members of the Special Operations Team.
The conflicting accounts have raised questions about what exactly transpired during the incident, as authorities are yet to provide a full official report.
The development has since attracted public attention, particularly given Mahama’s prominence in Ghana’s contemporary art scene and his contributions through SCCA and Red Clay Studio, both of which have played significant roles in promoting art and cultural exchange in northern Ghana.
As investigations continue, calls are likely to grow for clarity and accountability regarding the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault.
