Bolga pharmacist killing: Pharmaceutical Society demands justice

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has condemned the murder of Pharmacist Mohammed Zia-ulhak Zibrim, describing the incident as a “heinous and barbaric act” against a dedicated health professional and a peace-loving Ghanaian.

Pharmacist Zibrim, who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Zimax Pharmacy in Bolgatanga and also the General Secretary of PSGH’s Upper East Regional Branch, was fatally shot on the evening of Thursday, 5 June 2025. The incident happened in front of his residence shortly after he returned from work.

He was reportedly attacked while sitting in his pickup vehicle.

In a statement released by the PSGH on Monday, June 9, the professional body said it was “deeply saddened and outraged” by the killing and described Zibrim as a “young, vibrant professional who dedicated his life to the service of humanity through healthcare delivery.”

The PSGH noted that the killing of a pharmacist, “a critical member of the healthcare team providing life-saving services”, was a tragic loss not only to his family but to the entire pharmacy profession and the country at large.

“We are alarmed that such a despicable act could be meted out to a pharmacist,” the statement said. “This act represents not only a personal tragedy for his family and loved ones but also a loss to the entire pharmacy profession and the nation at large.”

The Society also expressed concern that the murder may be linked to the longstanding Bawku conflict. They highlighted that Zibrim, who was of both Mamprusi and Kusasi heritage, embodied unity in a region often marked by ethnic division.

“Pharmacist Zibrim, a peace-loving Ghanaian with both Mamprusi and Kusasi heritage, symbolised the very unity and cohesion that our society desperately needs,” the statement said. “It is deeply tragic that he has possibly become a victim of the very conflict that should have found resolution long ago.”

The PSGH is calling on the Ghana Police Service and all relevant security agencies to investigate the murder urgently and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“We call on the Ghana Police Service and all relevant security agencies to expedite investigations into this murder and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” the statement urged.

The Society further appealed to the government to take stronger action to restore peace in Bawku and surrounding areas and to ensure the safety of all workers, especially community pharmacists who often work late into the night.

“The needless shedding of innocent blood must come to an end. The PSGH calls for vigilance and security for all workers, including healthcare workers, especially community pharmacists who work and close late.”

They also called on police to provide added protection for PSGH members in the Upper East Region during the course of investigations.

The PSGH extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, particularly Zibrim’s parents, wife, and four children. “The PSGH mourns with you and stands firmly with you in this moment of grief,” the statement said.