The Interior Ministry of Ghana has announced an extension of the curfew in the Bawku Municipality and its surrounding areas in the Upper East Region.
Starting Tuesday, July 2, 2024, the curfew will be in effect daily from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Interior Minister Henry Quartey emphasized the need for calm and cooperation among local leaders and residents, urging them to pursue peaceful solutions to any conflicts. He recommended that community leaders and local dispute resolution mechanisms be utilized to address any issues.
The ministry also reaffirmed the strict prohibition on the possession of arms and weapons. Authorities will enforce arrests and prosecutions for those who violate this rule, highlighting the seriousness of the curfew and the measures in place.
“The extension of the curfew is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure public safety and security in the region. We are committed to maintaining peace and stability,” stated Minister Quartey.
A United Nations helicopter, carrying several passengers, has been captured by the terror group al-Shabaab after making an emergency landing in an area controlled by the group, confirmed UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric on Wednesday.
The UN emergency assistance helicopter made the emergency landing, likely due to a mechanical issue, in Somalia’s Galmudug region, which is under the control of the al-Qaeda-affiliated terror group, as reported by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA). There were eight passengers on board, including foreigners, and a rescue operation is underway.
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) stated that the helicopter “was conducting an air medical evacuation,” and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
The incident occurs weeks after the killing of Maalim Ayman, a senior leader of al-Shabaab, in a joint military operation between Somali and US forces on December 17. Ayman was reportedly responsible for planning multiple terrorist attacks in Somalia and neighboring countries.
The situation is ongoing, and further updates will follow as the story develops.
South Africa – The South African Missions in Ghana are extending a reassuring hand to potential travelers, urging Ghanaians to embrace the forthcoming visa-waiver agreement with confidence. Deputy South African High Commissioner to Ghana, Thando Dalmba, emphasized that the country is safe for travel, even though it has witnessed xenophobic incidents in the past.
Dalmba highlighted that the South African police are diligently working to prevent the re-occurrence of such events, assuring that the visa-waiver agreement will soon become a reality. He stressed the importance of taking precautionary measures when traveling to any country and advised potential travelers to do the same when visiting South Africa.
While acknowledging that criminals can take advantage of situations in any country, he encouraged Ghanaians to travel in groups for added safety. He noted that the visa-waiver agreement is part of the African Union’s broader agenda to facilitate travel across the continent, making it easier for Africans to explore different regions.
The waiver agreement is open to all Ghanaians with a valid passport that has at least six months until expiry, along with a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Despite past xenophobic incidents and the recent kidnapping of a Ghanaian pastor, Dalmba’s message is clear: South Africa is safe, and with the right precautions, travelers can experience the beauty of the country worry-free.
In a startling turn of events at the Atsiamedukor Za festival in Dagbamate, Akatsi South District of the Volta Region, a festive celebration transformed into a harrowing incident. Nine individuals, one of them a mere six-month-old infant, found themselves injured due to an unfortunate mishap during the celebration.
The festival, an annual tradition celebrated by the Atsiame clan, part of the larger Avenor traditional area in the district, witnessed a tragic incident during the revelries. The victims, in the aftermath of a shooting mishap, were immediately transported to the Sacred Heart Hospital in Abor for vital medical treatment.
While the precise details of the incident are still emerging, local authorities and law enforcement agencies are diligently probing the circumstances that led to this grievous event.
The identity of the injured individuals remains undisclosed, yet they currently receive medical care and attention from the dedicated medical staff at the Sacred Heart Hospital. The injury sustained by a six-month-old infant has been especially disheartening for the community, underscoring the urgent need for a thorough investigation and swift justice in case of any wrongdoing.
The community and the organizers of the festival are grappling with the shock and distress caused by the sudden outburst of violence during their cherished cultural event. As the investigation proceeds, the community is anxious for answers and committed to preventing the recurrence of such tragic events at their future gatherings.
This regrettable incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety and security measures during public gatherings and festivals. It serves as a reminder that understanding and following these protocols is crucial in preventing similar unfortunate occurrences. The community, in collaboration with the authorities, will closely follow the progress of the investigation and continue to extend support to the injured and their families in this challenging period.
Unique observer 24 