Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has cautioned the public against calls for attacks on soldiers over illegal mining also known as ‘galamsey’ activities or any other situation.
This follows the call by the Amenfi East New Patriotic Party (NPP) Parliamentary Candidate Ernest Frimpong’s recent comments urging illegal miners to beat up soldiers who try to stop them from mining.
In a statement, the Ghana Armed Forces disclosed that in a situation where a soldier misconducts him/herself, the soldier should be reported to the nearest police station or military barracks for the appropriate disciplinary action to be taken.
“It is important to note, that soldiers like any individuals, have the right to self-defense when faced with imminent threats or attacks that pose a danger to their lives or the lives of others. In situations where soldiers are confronted with immediate threats or acts of violence, they are allowed to use necessary and proportionate force to protect themselves and others. It must be noted that the outcome of such avoidable confrontations may be unpleasant and dire.
“It is against this premise that GAF wishes to remind and caution the public that assaulting or attacking soldiers is a grave offense punishable by law. It implores all citizens to respect, cooperate, and support our soldiers and to refrain from engaging in acts of violence or incitement against them,” GAF added.
