Ghana Armed Forces react to military brutalities

Accra, Dec. 13, GNA - The Ghana Armed Forces has reacted to media reports about alleged misconduct of military personnel deployed to Bawku and Nalerigu on internal security operations, saying it had caused the High Command a great deal of concern.

A press released issued by Colonel Emmanuel Nibo, Director of Public Relations, reacted to the stripping naked of some suspected criminals in Bawku and said disciplinary action was being taken against the personnel involved.

"Clearly this was a case of indulgence in abuses or excesses by the personnel involved.This kind of conduct is unacceptable to the Armed Forces Command and regrettable," the statement said.

"In as much as the whole incident was unfortunate and distasteful to the Military Command and the Armed Forces as a whole, we must not forget that it is unlawful to possess weapons and ammunitions in Bawku and its environs. The arrest of the two suspects with the 34 rounds of ammunition should not be swept under the carpet."

The statement also touched on the allegation that some females at Nalerigu were raped by the security forces who were deployed in the town to maintain law and order, following the murder of one Mr Moses Alando Banaba. It said investigations of the rape allegations were not conclusive, stressing: "As soon as investigations are concluded by the appropriate agencies, action would be taken against any personnel who may have been found to have misconducted himself."

The statement said the Armed Forces does not condone any acts of misconduct, abuses and excesses on the part of its personnel, and would always take preventive measures to address such cases swiftly and judiciously.

"Education of troops is also continuing in order to ensure that they handle civilians in a humane manner to prevent reoccurrence and also strengthen civil-military relations.

"The Military High Command would also like to re-assure all Ghanaians that no stone would be left unturned in providing security, which is needed in all conflict areas including Bawku and its environs, using all legitimate means.

"However the Command would like to advise persons who want to undermine the peace and stability of the country to be wary of the consequences of their actions and desist from testing the resolve of the security forces to ensure peace and security." 13 Dec. 09