The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has expressed serious concern over recent attempts by mobs to disarm military personnel deployed on authorized duties in support of the Ghana Police Service to maintain law and order nationwide.
In a statement released on Tuesday, December 10, and signed by the Director General of Public Relations, Brigadier General E. Aggrey-Quashie, the GAF cautioned the public against such actions, emphasizing that military personnel are fully entitled to protect themselves, innocent civilians, and property when under attack.
“GAF wishes to caution all and sundry that military personnel on authorized duty have the right to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force if necessary to preserve life,” the statement read.
The GAF also urged Ghanaians to exercise their civic rights responsibly and cooperate with security personnel to avoid actions that could undermine national peace and stability.
The statement reaffirmed the GAF’s commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty and stability of the nation and called on all citizens to refrain from actions that endanger the country’s security.
Incident in Obuasi
On Election Day, December 7, in the Obuasi municipality of the Ashanti Region, a video circulated on social media showing an altercation between two armed soldiers and political party agents attempting to block their access to a polling center in Obuasi East.
The confrontation escalated as civilians attempted to disarm one of the soldiers. In the video, a civilian was heard warning the soldier, saying, “Get away, if you try, you will see. Where are you going?”
One of the soldiers responded, “Stop taking the video, allow me to go, and don’t touch me.”
The GAF reiterated its appeal to the public to avoid confrontations with security personnel, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and respecting lawful authority during such critical times.
Attached below is a copy of the statement
The GhanaArmed Forces (GAF) has observed attempts by mobs to disarm military personnel on authorised duty as part of military support to the Ghana Police Service to restore law and order across the country.
GAF wishes to caution all and sundry that military personnel on authorised duty have the right to defend themselves, innocent civilians, and property, including the use of lethal force, if necessary to preserve life.
GAF wishes to once again encourage all Ghanaians to exercise their civic rights responsibly, cooperate with security personnel and refrain from any acts that could disrupt the peace. GAF reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the stability and sovereignty of the nation.
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