Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, has warned individuals behind the ongoing unrest in Bawku.
He has cautioned that any attacks on civilians or military personnel will be treated as acts of extremism and met with the full force of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Speaking at a press briefing after touring the conflict-prone town in the Upper East Region on Wednesday, Maj Gen Gbetanu stressed the military’s readiness to decisively clamp down on violent elements.
“I’ll serve a word of caution to all, especially those fomenting the trouble in Bawku, that their days are getting numbered. Any attack on innocent civilians or any military personnel will be considered as an act of extremism and will be met with the deliberate full strength and resolve of our forces,” he declared.
The Army Chief vowed that there would be “no safe haven” for those choosing violence over peace and unity.
He said the Ghana Armed Forces are committed to tracking and bringing to justice all armed individuals contributing to the violence in the area.
“We will pursue every individual involved. And justice will be served,” he assured.
Maj Gen Gbetanu also appealed directly to the youth, urging them to abandon violence and choose dialogue and development instead.
“Lay down your arms, return to the path of peace. Your future does not lie in bloodshed but in building, learning, and growing your country,” he said.
Earlier in the day, the Chief of Army Staff paid a courtesy call on the Kusaug Traditional Council. During the visit, he called for collaboration between traditional leaders and security forces to restore calm to the area.
He also asked chiefs to help rein in the youth and discourage any confrontational behavior toward military personnel, stressing the need for mutual respect to maintain stability in the area.
The visit marks Maj Gen Gbetanu’s first official tour of Bawku since assuming office.
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