The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in Bawku, following the resurgence of violence in the area.
During a working visit, the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, issued a strong statement condemning recent attacks, including those that have targeted security personnel deployed in the conflict zone.
Over the past few months, the conflict in Bawku has escalated and begun to spread into surrounding areas, resulting in a series of indiscriminate killings and increased insecurity. The GAF described these acts as “cowardly” and vowed to respond with full force against those responsible.
“The Ghana Armed Forces will leave no stone unturned in coming after armed elements destabilizing Bawku,” Major General Gbetanu warned.
He emphasized that any attacks on civilians or security forces would be treated as acts of extremism and met with decisive military action.
The GAF announced that it is working closely with other security agencies to intensify operations in the municipality. These efforts include enforcement of the existing curfew, routine and special patrols, the protection of strategic installations, and targeted operations, which have already led to arrests and the seizure of illegal weapons and ammunition.
“The underlying issues fueling the conflict in Bawku are deep-rooted and complex, but violence is not the answer,” Major General Gbetanu said. “We continue to engage key community leaders to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect as the only sustainable path to peace.”
He further issued a stern warning to individuals inciting violence in the area, stating that their actions will not go unpunished.
“We will not relent in our efforts to create an environment conducive to peace and security. Let me, however, serve a word of caution to all—especially those fomenting the trouble in Bawku—that their days are numbered,” he declared.
He concluded with a powerful message: “The future does not lie in bloodshed, but in building, learning, and growing your country. Choose unity over division, and peace over destruction.”
Major General Gbetanu also commended the bravery and professionalism of the security personnel serving in Bawku under extremely challenging conditions. He assured them of continued logistical support from the Armed Forces to bolster their peacekeeping efforts.