KEY POINTS
- Maj. Gen. Gbetanu warns attackers in Bawku, saying military force will be used.
- The Ghana Armed Forces are committed to bringing those responsible for violence to justice.
- Gbetanu urges youth to abandon violence and work toward peace and development.
Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, has issued a stern warning to individuals behind the unrest in Bawku.
He cautioned that any attacks on civilians or military personnel would be considered acts of extremism. These acts will be met with the full force of the Ghana Armed Forces.
Military forces ready to clamp down on violence
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Maj. Gen. Gbetanu emphasized the military’s readiness to act decisively. After touring Bawku, he stressed that the Ghana Armed Forces would not hesitate to clamp down on violent elements.
“Their days are getting numbered,” he declared, warning those fomenting trouble in Bawku.
Army Chief appeals to youth to abandon violence
Maj. Gen. Gbetanu appealed directly to the youth, urging them to abandon violence and choose peace. He encouraged them to embrace dialogue, development, and growth over bloodshed. “Lay down your arms, return to the path of peace,” he said. “Your future does not lie in bloodshed but in building your country.”
According to MyJoyOnline, earlier in the day, Maj. Gen. Gbetanu 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 in the area.
He also urged chiefs to help control the youth and avoid confrontational behavior toward military personnel. The visit marked his first official tour of Bawku since assuming office.
