Ibrahim Mahama, Founder of the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art (SCCA) and the Red Clay Studio in Tamale, has alleged that he was assaulted by a group believed to be members of the IGP’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as “Black Maria.”
The incident reportedly left the renowned artist with dental injuries, including the loss of a tooth, while his uncle—who was driving the vehicle at the time—also sustained injuries.
Mahama, who has since been treated and discharged from Habana Hospital, is said to be awaiting further dental care following damage to two of his teeth as a result of the alleged assault.
Speaking in a telephone interview with Channel One News, he explained that the altercation occurred during a traffic situation caused by the observance of Eid prayers at a school near the Mariam Hotel.
He further alleged that the individuals involved in the assault were members of the “Black Maria” team, who were reportedly recently redeployed from the region.
He added that his uncle, who was the only other occupant in the vehicle, also suffered injuries during the incident.
However, checks by Channel One News with the Commander of the IGP Special Operations Team, DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, indicate that the unit denies involvement in the incident.
In a telephone interview, he stated that although he and his men were in Tamale for the Eid al-Fitr celebrations, they were not directly involved in the alleged assault.
He suggested that the attack was carried out by some youth, contrary to claims linking his team, who were present at the scene, to the incident.
