The Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, has announced an extension of the curfew hours for Bawku Municipality and its surrounding areas in the Upper East Region. This extension, enacted through an Executive Instrument, will see the curfew in effect from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m., starting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
The decision comes in response to ongoing tensions in the area, which have necessitated stricter measures to maintain order and protect residents. In an official statement, Minister Quartey called on the chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, youth, and residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate the situation further. He emphasized the importance of non-violent approaches and urged the community to work towards peace, despite the challenges they face.
The extension of the curfew is part of a broader effort by the government to manage security concerns in Bawku, an area that has experienced unrest in recent times. The Minister’s message was clear, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and seek peaceful means of resolving disputes.
In addition to the curfew, the government has maintained a total ban on the possession of arms, ammunition, or any offensive weapons within Bawku Municipality and its surrounding communities. This measure is seen as essential in preventing further violence. The statement from the Ministry reiterated that “any persons found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted,” underscoring the seriousness of the ban and the consequences for those who fail to comply.
The security situation in Bawku has been a matter of concern for some time, and the government continues to monitor developments closely. While the curfew extension aims to provide a safer environment, the authorities are also calling on residents to assist in maintaining peace by respecting the curfew and abiding by the ban on weapons. Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert, with regular patrols expected to ensure compliance with the new measures.
