Operation 'Suhudoo' launched

The Northern Regional Security Council has launched Operation 'Suhudoo' (Calm Lives) to combat the recent insecurity in some parts of the region, especially the Tamale metropolis.

Recently, there has been an increase in attacks on lives and property in the area, especially on fuel stations. At least four people have been killed since January this year in such attacks. About seven fuel stations have so far been attacked since the beginning of the year.

Speaking at the launch of Operation Suhudoo at the Tamale Jubilee Park, the Chairman of REGSEC, who is also the Northern Regional Minister, Mr Salifu Sa-eed, described attacks on fuel stations and mobile money centres as distasteful. He also condemned highway robberies as well as attacks on people’s residence.

He stated that: "We are here today to declare that the days of fear are over and that our security agencies are coming out strongly to deal effectively with the perpetrators of these condemnable acts".

Mr Sa-eed warned the robbers and those seeking to disturb the peace in the region that their days are numbered.

He stated that REGSEC will not allow anyone or group of persons to foment trouble of any kind in the area. "The security agencies will put all the necessary measures [in place] to deal with those who would like to fan trouble under any of these covers" he stressed.

The Northern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Adu Sarpong gave the assurance that the security personnel were ever ready and committed to combat the crime rate in the area. He said: "For the criminals, I have just a word for them; I’m telling them that an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. I’m telling them that they should better go away or we’ll deal ruthlessly with them when they’re caught".

He also implored stakeholders, especially politicians to allow the police carry out their duties without interference.

Mr Sarpong also charged the citizenry to defend themselves even before the intervention of the security officers. He said they should not leave the protection of their lives to only the police.

Operation Calm Lives is composed of the Sixth Infantry Battalion, Airborne Force, Immigration Service, Customs, Fire Service, Police and the Prisons Service.

Some mobile barriers are expected to be established in some strategic points in and out of the Tamale metropolis. Government has also supported the operation with some logistics including new pickups to patrol the area, especially in the night.