The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has dismissed allegations of being involved in the recent fatalities of three individuals in Sabongari, Bawku.
This comes in response to the killing of Issah Halidu, a 40-year-old Mamprusi man, on January 12th, which triggered a surge in violence in the region.
While recognizing the escalating tensions and tragic loss of life, the GAF unequivocally denies any connection to the subsequent deaths.
In their statement, they underscore that the perpetrators responsible for the recent assault were never under their custody at any point.
According to the GAF’s account, the violence commenced on January 12 with the murder of Issah Halidu. On January 17, unidentified gunmen launched an attack on civilians, resulting in two deaths and four injuries.
Furthermore, on January 18, the GAF reported firing at a Ghanaian Army post and observing two locals attempting to ignite a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) bomb at a Goil Filling Station in Bawku.
While expressing regret over the fatalities, the GAF cautions against direct confrontation with military personnel.
The statement emphasizes, “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.”