Gyebi Asante, Deputy Director of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, says heightened tensions in the Upper East region have led to an unsettling rise in the culture of firearm ownership among the local populace.
His comments fall on the heels of renewed clashes in Bawku and a recent armed attack near Binduri, which claimed the lives of five individuals.
Asante, describing the situation as deeply concerning, highlighted the worrisome implications of this newfound trend.
“We all know the conflict in Bawku that has been there for so many years. It keeps happening once in a while. We know the root cause, which we need to prevent. Unfortunately, the conflict has grown on a large scale because people have access to small arms and are using them illegitimately.”
The Deputy Director points to the escalating tensions as a catalyst for the emergence of a culture of firearm ownership among the residents.
This unsettling development, according to the Small Arms Commission, adds a new layer of complexity to the challenges faced by the Upper East region, where the recent surge in violence has not only fueled conflict but has also given rise to concerns about the prevalence of firearms in the community.
“Over the years, these illicit arms have found their way into the Bawku community. People are arming themselves because of the conflict. Others are arming themselves to protect themselves, while others are arming themselves to settle scores.”
In response to the revelation, it is anticipated that the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons will intensify efforts to address the root causes of the surge in firearm ownership.
This will involve community engagement initiatives, awareness campaigns, and collaborative strategies with law enforcement to mitigate the risks associated with an increase in the prevalence of firearms.
Tune in to broadcasts online: asaaseradio.com, Sound Garden and TuneIn
Follow us on Twitter: @asaaseradio995
Live streaming on facebook.com/asaase99.5. Also on YouTube: AsaaseXtra.
Join the conversation. Call: 020 000 9951 or 059 415 7777. Or WhatsApp: 020 000 0995.
#Asaase321
#TheVoiceofOurLand
#WeAreHere
#WeLoveOurLand
#SafeMotorway4All
