A tragic terrorist attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, has claimed the lives of seven Ghanaian tomato traders and left several others injured, prompting immediate concern and strong reactions from Ghanaian political figures.

The victims were part of a group of 18 Ghanaian tomato traders and truck drivers caught in the deadly incident last Saturday.

Among the survivors, three men sustained injuries, and one woman remains in critical condition.

Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, confirmed that the bodies of the seven deceased traders were burnt beyond recognition and had begun decomposing.

Due to the volatile security situation, authorities proceeded with burial arrangements in Burkina Faso on Monday, February 16, as safe travel for Ghana’s diplomatic mission was not possible.

The Burkinabé authorities conducted the burials, with some uninjured Ghanaian women able to witness the solemn event.

Efforts are now underway to evacuate the surviving victims.

Minister Mubarak revealed that Burkina Faso’s military is establishing a secure corridor to transport the injured and uninjured survivors to Ghana’s mission in Ouagadougou, from where arrangements will be made for their safe return home.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism and expressions of sorrow from across the political spectrum.

Michael Okyere Baafi, Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, expressed profound concern, criticizing what he described as the “glaring incompetence” of the Mahama administration in safeguarding Ghanaian citizens involved in cross-border trade.

He highlighted the government’s failure to protect these individuals, stating they were left “exposed like lambs to the slaughter.”

He questioned the lack of timely advisories, enhanced border patrols, and coordinated evacuations, calling for immediate parliamentary inquiry, compensation for victims’ families, and a comprehensive review of Ghana’s regional security protocols.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Former Vice-President and newly elected flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, also expressed his shock and sorrow over the reports.

In a Facebook post on February 16, he described the incident as a “tragic loss for the nation”, extended condolences to the bereaved families, and wished the injured a swift recovery.

Dr. Bawumia underscored the importance of safeguarding Ghanaian traders abroad and urged the government to enhance intelligence collaboration with neighbouring countries, strengthen cross-border security, and prevent violent extremism through proactive intelligence gathering, regional cooperation, and robust security measures.

The attack highlights the growing threat of terrorism in West Africa and underscores the urgent need for coordinated regional security frameworks to protect citizens engaged in vital economic activities.