The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has strongly condemned the murder of Pharmacist Mohammed Zia-ulhak Zibrim, describing the incident as a “heinous and barbaric act” against a dedicated healthcare professional and a peace-loving Ghanaian.
Pharmacist Zibrim, who was the Chief Executive Officer of Zimax Pharmacy in Bolgatanga and served as the General Secretary of PSGH’s Upper East Regional Branch, was fatally shot on the evening of Thursday, June 5, 2025. The attack occurred in front of his residence, shortly after he returned from work. He was reportedly shot while sitting in his pickup vehicle.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 9, PSGH expressed deep sorrow and outrage over the killing, describing Zibrim as a “young, vibrant professional who dedicated his life to the service of humanity through healthcare delivery.”
The Society highlighted that the murder of a pharmacist, “a critical member of the healthcare team providing life-saving services,” was not only a tragic loss to his family but also to the entire pharmacy profession and Ghana as a whole.
“We are alarmed that such a despicable act could be meted out to a pharmacist,” PSGH stated. “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.”
Concerns have been raised that the murder might be linked to the longstanding Bawku conflict. PSGH underscored Zibrim’s heritage, noting that he belonged to both the Mamprusi and Kusasi ethnic groups and stood as a symbol of unity in a region often affected by ethnic tensions.
“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 read. “It is deeply tragic that he has possibly become a victim of the very conflict that should have found resolution long ago.”
The PSGH has called on the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to swiftly investigate the murder and ensure justice is served. “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 Society urged.
Additionally, PSGH has appealed to the government to intensify efforts in restoring peace in Bawku and surrounding areas, ensuring the safety of all workers, especially community pharmacists who often work late hours.
“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.”
The Society also urged authorities to provide extra protection for PSGH members in the Upper East Region as investigations continue.
Expressing deep condolences to the bereaved family, PSGH extended sympathy to Zibrim’s parents, wife, and four children. “The PSGH mourns with you and stands firmly with you in this moment of grief,” the statement concluded.
