A civil society group, Gumgumm LBG, has condemned the recent military operations in Bawku, describing them as “inhumane and dastardly” attacks against innocent civilians.
In a press release issued on March 24, the group accused the Ghana Armed Forces of using excessive force on residents following the killing of a military officer in the area.
“We condemn the killing of a military officer who was in the area for official duty. However, it beats our imagination how these military officers, who are supposed to protect life and property, are rather destroying them,” the statement read.
The group alleged that in the past few days, soldiers had engaged in extrajudicial killings, assaults, and destruction of property, targeting unarmed civilians. It recounted an instance where eight civilians were reportedly shot and killed without any consequences for those responsible.
“In this recent incident, the military have beaten and assaulted anybody they come across. Pregnant women, old ladies, old men, children, and even people living with disabilities. Most of the victims are still battling for their lives in hospitals,” the statement continued.
Gumgumm also accused the military of vandalizing property worth thousands of Ghana cedis, including television sets, louvers, car windscreens, and air conditioners. The group expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to hold the military accountable and called on the current administration to take immediate action.
“We are disappointed and alarmed that the military failed to utilize the plethora of state-sponsored intelligence agencies at their disposal to fish out the perpetrators of this despicable act but rather chose to terrorize helpless civilians”.
The group is demanding the replacement of the current military contingent in Bawku, full compensation for destroyed properties, and payment of all medical bills for victims of the alleged brutality. Additionally, they are calling for the provision of insurance coverage for affected individuals and for the state or military to take responsibility for the funerals of those who lost their lives.
Gumgumm urged civil society organizations, Members of Parliament, and all stakeholders to join in demanding justice for the victims.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Deborah Amuzu
