Soldier dies in Binduri blast during millitary counter-terrorism training exercise – GAF

The Chief of Army Staff,, has confirmed the death of a soldier during a counter-terrorism training exercise in the Upper East Region.

The deceased, identified as, was a physical training instructor with the 6th Infantry Battalion and reportedly lost his life following an explosion during operations in the Binduri Forest area.

According to military officials, the incident occurred during “Exercise Storm Shield,” a specialised counter-terrorism training programme aimed at strengthening the preparedness, coordination, and operational capacity of security personnel in responding to emerging terrorist threats and violent extremism.

The exercise forms part of ongoing national security efforts to reinforce surveillance and defence capabilities, particularly in northern border communities considered vulnerable to cross-border security threats and extremist activities in the West African sub-region.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the exercise, Major General Gbetanu expressed deep sorrow over the incident and described the deceased soldier as a dedicated officer who died in active service to the nation.

“You have demonstrated throughout this exercise and operation, however, on a sad note, and also taking note of the occupational risks and hazards as you are seated wearing this uniform and the ultimate price we sometimes pay in service to our dear nation,” he stated.

“But it was an unfortunate incident that eventually led to the death of 218079 Private Adotey, a physical training instructor at the 6th Infantry Battalion,” the Army Chief added.

The military commander extended condolences to the family of the deceased, his colleagues, and the entire Ghana Armed Forces community following the tragic incident.

“At this note, I will humbly and with all humility ask ourselves to be upstanding and observe a minute's silence,” he said during the ceremony.

Major General Gbetanu further emphasised the strategic importance of Exercise Storm Shield in strengthening Ghana’s national security architecture amid growing concerns over terrorism and insecurity within parts of the Sahel region.

He reaffirmed the Ghana Armed Forces’ commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity, maintaining peace, and ensuring the safety of citizens despite the risks associated with military operations and specialised security training.

The Army Chief also disclosed that investigations into the explosion and the circumstances surrounding the soldier’s death are currently ongoing.

Security experts have repeatedly stressed the need for enhanced counter-terrorism preparedness in Ghana due to increasing instability in neighbouring countries and the spread of extremist activities across parts of West Africa.

Exercise Storm Shield is one of several military preparedness initiatives designed to improve operational readiness, rapid response capabilities, and inter-agency coordination in dealing with potential security threats.