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08.06.2009 Regional News

Woyongo: Bawku weapons retrieval will be sustained

08.06.2009 LISTEN
By Myjoyonline.com


Upper East Regional Minister Mark Wayongo says random military operations to retrieve illegal guns and ammunition in the Bawku municipality, will continue.

The Minister says the random searches, which started on Saturday through to Sunday are intelligence-led and will clamp down on those in possession of illegally acquired guns.

Bawku and surrounding townships have witnessed violent clashes between Kusaasi and Mamprusi ethnic groups in a long standing chieftaincy dispute.

Three persons were killed last week after renewed violence in the town, compelling government to impose a 21 hour curfew.

Mr. Wayongo says, the ongoing random searches by the military will help restore order

“People were carrying guns with impunity so these random searches will help to instil some fear in the people, especially those who are carrying guns,” Mr Woyongo told Joy News.

He said the combined police-military patrol teams have so far retrieved two hand guns and scores of other sophisticated weapons.

One person has so far being arrested in the swoop and a number of weapons retrieved.

Mr. Wayongo said the exercise is being successful.

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