GAF remains steadfast in restoring peace in Bawku - Chief of Army Staff

The Chief of the Army Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, affirmed the commitment of security personnel to restore peace in Bawku. This area is located in the Upper East Region.

Major General Gbetanu stated that the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and other agencies have managed the ongoing crisis in Bawku. The conflict involves two opposing sides. He emphasized their goal is to achieve lasting peace for the community.

He made these remarks during a media interaction on April 23, 2025. This was his first official visit outside Accra since his appointment. He met with chiefs and military personnel deployed to maintain order.

During his visit, he paid a courtesy call on Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Overlord of Kusaug. He also assessed the security situation firsthand.

Accompanied by Brigadier General Frank Nartey Tei and Lieutenant Colonel Kakra Sasu-Antwi, he visited a military outpost in Kpalore. A military officer had recently been killed there.

Major General Gbetanu expressed concern about escalating violence in recent months. He condemned all killings and cowardly acts against security personnel trying to restore peace.

To address this violence, he mentioned that personnel are enforcing curfews and conducting patrols. They aim to protect key installations and prevent further clashes.

He urged all parties involved in the conflict to lay down their arms. Peaceful resolution is essential for mutual benefit, he said.

“The GAF is dedicated to protecting lives and property,” Major-General Gbetanu assured. He warned those causing trouble that their days were numbered.

Any attack on civilians or military personnel would be treated as terrorism, he added. Such actions would face a strong response from military forces.

He directed personnel to conduct targeted searches for weapons held by civilians. Major General Gbetanu appealed to Naba Azoka II for support in promoting restraint among youth.

Naba Azoka II praised Major General Gbetanu's efforts during a courtesy call through Pusiga Naba, Naba Tambiisi-baaluk-Kunwiak Ibrahim Aguuri I.

He raised concerns about how security escorts affect residents traveling out of town. These escorts sometimes hinder other motorists' use of roads.

Naba Azoka II noted that some residents have been injured or killed due to escort practices within town. He commended security personnel for their peacekeeping efforts in Bawku.

In response, Major General Gbetanu promised to review escort operations for safety improvements.