Black Maria Unit Poised for Leadership Change – DSP Abdul Jalil Signals
Current commander hints at transition while reaffirming unit’s continued role in national security
- DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, head of the IGP Special Operations Team (“Black Maria”), signals an upcoming leadership transition.
- Comments came amid scrutiny over the alleged assault on artist Ibrahim Mahama in Tamale, with the unit denying involvement.
- Case referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau for investigation of potential misconduct
The leader of the IGP Special Operations Team, widely known as “Black Maria,” DSP Bawah Abdul Jalil, has indicated that a change in leadership is on the horizon.
DSP Abdul Jalil addressed his team while referencing the March 21 alleged assault on renowned Ghanaian musician Ibrahim Mahama in Tamale.
Reports suggested personnel linked to the Black Maria unit may have been involved, though DSP Abdul Jalil’s team denied any participation, confirming its officers were not at the scene.
The incident has since been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau, which investigates allegations of misconduct within the Ghana Police Service.
Speaking to his team, DSP Abdul Jalil stated that the unit remains operational, but emphasized that new leadership will soon take charge:
“Today, we are going to move on with the IGP’s special operations because it is still in existence, but there’s going to be a change in the leadership. The leadership that is coming is still going to be the leadership that is going to work for the IGP.”
He added:
“I believe the total support that I had from you, whoever that is going to take over from me, everyone will join hands and make sure we keep this country safe irrespective of whatever reservations we have.”
The remarks signal a transition period for Black Maria while reaffirming the unit’s ongoing commitment to national security.
