Army Chief Issues Stern Warning Over Bawku Unrest
Major General Gbetanu vows swift justice as military ramps up efforts to restore peace in conflict-hit Bawku
- arns that any attack on civilians or troops will be treated as extremism
- Ghana Armed Forces poised to respond with full force against violent actors.
- Youth urged to abandon violence and pursue development and dialogue
The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, has delivered a sharp ultimatum to those fueling the unrest in Bawku, declaring that any attack on civilians or soldiers will be treated as extremism—and met with a powerful military response.
During a press briefing on Wednesday after touring the conflict-ridden town in Ghana’s Upper East Region, Major General Gbetanu made it clear that the Ghana Armed Forces will not tolerate any form of violence.
“Let this be a final warning—those inciting chaos in Bawku are running out of time. Any aggression toward civilians or military personnel will be met with the full might of our forces,” he said.
He emphasized that there will be “no safe haven” for perpetrators of violence, vowing that justice will be swift and relentless.
In a heartfelt message to the youth, he urged them to lay down their arms and choose peace over conflict, highlighting that the future of the region lies in development, not destruction.
“Your future doesn’t lie in bloodshed—it lies in building, learning, and growing your country,” he appealed.
Earlier, the Army Chief met with the Kusaug Traditional Council, calling for stronger collaboration between local leaders and security forces to de-escalate tensions and restore lasting peace.
This visit marks Major General Gbetanu’s first official tour of Bawku since his appointment—and he made it clear: the military is watching, and it is ready.
