Banda Ahenkro under xenophobic attack

Government workers in Banda Ahenkro in the Banda District of the Brong Ahafo Region have deserted post over a threat of xenophobic attack by a group calling itself concern members of Banda Ahenkro. This followed a notice circulating in the Banda Ahenkro town warning of attack on people the group considered as ‘strangers’ who came to take over all works in town.

According to Head teacher of Roman Catholic Junior High School in Banda Ahenkro Jones Agyemang who spoke to Bright Kwesi Asempa on Onua Fm morning show Yen Nsem Pa, they have decided to leave post for fear of being attacked. Jones Agyemang said after receiving the threatening note, he drew the attention of his staff and they quickly reported to the GES boss and later to the Banda Divisional command. He noted that on the advice of the Divisional Command, they ‘strangers’ have thought it wise to leave the town for safety.

“The letter from these anonymous concern members of Banda Ahenkro was brought to the school, it was centered at the exact position we have our meetings. The letter sounded threatening so we had to act. Some of my staff left yesterday, I have finished preparing and will be leaving soon”

Jones Agyemang also revealed that other government workers have left due to the threat and those who could not get transport are departing the town this morning. “We need to be sure that we are safe or we will not return to post. My house was attacked sometime ago, they destroyed my dish and louvers in the process, so we are not save” he lamented.

Another Teacher from Banda Ahenkro D/A JHS also confirmed the xenophobic notice and added that over hundred of government workers comprising health workers have left town for fear of their lives.

He recounted how on the 7th of March this year, same group went to attack the District Assembly and took away some documents and computers. The notice was headlined “CONCERN MEMBERS OF BANDA AHENKRO DECLARES THEIR INTENTION TO LAUNCH XENOPHOBIC ATTACK ON STRANGERS WORKING ON THEIR LAND”

Meanwhile, when Yen Nsem Pa team got in touch with the Wenchi Municipal Commander ASP Asamoah Agyekum, he confirmed receiving report of that nature and immediately dispatched team of detectives to the Banda Ahenkro town to launch an intensive investigation in the matter. He said “We want to find a quick solution to this issue so that these workers will return. Whatever information that will help us is welcome. We are still in possession with the letter”

ASP Asamoah Agyekum also added that those who are willing to leave can do so. “We will not restrict anyone who feels unsafe” he concluded.