The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has refuted claims that, its soldiers deployed on Operation Maida Buuri to restore calm in Sabongari, a suburb of Bawku played a part in the deaths of some individuals in the area.
Explaining the cause of the recent shootings in Bawku, GAF in a statement said on January 12, 2024, a 40 year old Mamprusi, Issah Halidu was killed by some gunmen.
GAF further explained that, the deceased attempted rustling 4 cattle at Avengo, a Kusasi dominated settlement, but was pursued by unidentified gunmen and shot in the head and back. Troops dispatched to the scene retrieved two 7.62 x 39mm live rounds from the deceased’s pocket.
Additionally, on January 17, unknown gunmen attacked public members, killing two and injuring four others while on January 18, GAF fired at a Ghanaian Army post and spotted two locals attempting to light a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) bomb at a Goil Filling Station in Bawku.
The Ghana Armed Forces in the statement urged the general public to disregard allegations that its soldiers killed civilians and desist from engaging directly with the military.
“It is instructive to note that directly engaging the military is a development that could result in fatal consequences; as troops will spare no opportunity to defend themselves as well as protect residents of Bawku. Therefore, factions in the Bawku conflict are cautioned against drawing the military into direct armed confrontation while efforts are undertaken to resolve the current impasse. GAF wishes to assure the general public of its fervent commitment to protecting the citizenry”, GAF said.
GAF has therefore called on the support of all peace-loving Ghanaians, especially the good people of Bawku to facilitate the process of bringing lasting peace to the area and also to aid GAF and sister security agencies in de-escalating tension in the interest of peace, security and socio- economic development of Bawku and the nation in general.
See full Statement
