Interior Minister Reminds Bawku Residents of Weapon Ban Amid Safety Drive

The Interior Minister has issued a renewed reminder to residents of Bawku and surrounding communities that the carrying of firearms, ammunition, and all forms of offensive weapons remains strictly prohibited. This call comes as part of ongoing efforts by the Government of Ghana to improve security and prevent the recurrence of violent clashes in parts of the Upper East Region.

In a public statement, the minister emphasised that safety and peace remain top priorities for the government. The reminder follows reports of occasional tensions and isolated incidents involving armed confrontations among rival groups in Bawku, a town that has experienced intermittent communal conflict over many years. These reminders are meant to reinforce existing legal restrictions and support law enforcement’s mandate to maintain public order.

Security Measures and Legal Framework

Under Ghanaian law, the unauthorised possession of arms and ammunition is considered a serious offence. The Arms and Ammunition Act forbids civilians from carrying weapons without proper licensing, and sanctions for violation can include fines, imprisonment or both. According to the minister, these laws are necessary to protect lives, sustain peace, and secure communities across the nation.

The minister urged traditional leaders, youth groups, religious organisations, and civil society actors to join hands with security agencies in spreading awareness about the weapon ban. He noted that community involvement is essential for lasting stability, as the support of local stakeholders improves intelligence gathering, promotes peaceful dispute resolution, and fosters mutual trust between citizens and security personnel.

Context of the Reminder

Bawku has historically been a hotspot for sporadic conflict linked to chieftaincy disputes, identity affiliations, and competing interests among resident groups. These conflicts, while often localised, have drawn national attention due to periodic escalation and loss of life. In response, the government has deployed security forces at various times to restore calm and protect civilians.

Recent reports suggested that some youths had been found in possession of crude weapons and unregistered firearms. While authorities have made arrests and confiscated illegal items, the recent reminder underscores the need for vigilance and compliance with the weapon ban to avert potential flare ups.

Government Commitment to Peace

The minister reiterated that the government remains committed to fostering peace and security not only in Bawku but across all communities facing similar challenges. He reaffirmed the administration’s determination to improve the capacity of security agencies to safeguard citizens, and underscored the necessity of coordinated action between the police, immigration officials, and other relevant agencies.

“As we continue to build safer communities, we appeal to residents to assist law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activity,” the minister said. “Our collective efforts are important for preventing the misuse of weapons and ensuring every citizen can live without fear.”

Community Response and Civil Society Involvement

Local leaders and community groups welcomed the minister’s reminder, expressing support for initiatives that prioritise peace and safety. A spokesperson for a coalition of youth organisations in Bawku said that rejecting violence and adhering to the weapon ban is vital for community development. They also encouraged young people to adopt peaceful means of conflict resolution, especially in resolving social or political disputes.

Religious leaders in the area called for increased dialogue that promotes reconciliation and unity, particularly among families and groups affected by past conflicts. Several organisations pledged to hold community sensitisation forums to educate residents about the dangers of weapon proliferation and the legal consequences of violating the ban.

Role of Security Agencies

Security agencies have also reiterated their commitment to enforcing the law. A senior police official in the Upper East Region explained that the weapon ban is not meant to intimidate law‑abiding citizens but to protect them from harm. He noted that operations aimed at apprehending individuals with illegal arms would continue, coupled with efforts to build trust and cooperation with local residents.

Police patrols and checkpoints have been increased in strategic locations, and officers are working to ensure that weapons are not circulating within communities. Collaborations between police and traditional authorities are being strengthened to improve intelligence flow and community outreach.

The Road Ahead

While the weapon ban serves as a crucial tool in preventing violence, long‑term peace in Bawku will likely depend on holistic approaches that combine law enforcement with community dialogue, economic opportunities for youths, and sustained engagement by governmental and civil society actors.

For now, the Interior Minister’s message is clear: compliance with the prohibition on carrying weapons is a legal requirement and a vital step toward building a safer future for all residents. Public cooperation, strengthened security measures, and community mobilisation are being positioned as central pillars of this peacebuilding effort.

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