Curfew re-imposed in Bawku

Accra, Jan. 7, GNA - The Ministry of the Interior on Monday said the curfew imposed on the Bawku Municipal area, Zabugu and Garu township and their environs on 1st January 2007 following the eruption of communal violence has been re-imposed on the recommendation of the Upper East Regional security Council (REGSEC).

Mr. Kwamena Bartels, the Sector Minister, in a signed statement said, "The curfew is still from dusk-to-dawn (6.00pm - 6.00am) in respect of the Bawku Municipal Area, but has been reduced in respect of Zabugu and Garu townships from 8.00pm to 5.00 am.

It said; "The curfew has had to be re-imposed even though calm has been restored to the Bawku Municipality, Zabugu and Garu townships, the peace is still deem fragile with tension and suspicion still prevailing, and needs to be monitored closely so as to consolidate the peace." The statement said so far, eight (8) people were confirmed dead with seven (7) from Bawku and one (1) from Garu, while sixteen (16) people were confirmed injured with one hundred and four (104) houses and stores completely burnt down, while twenty-three (23) houses have been partially burnt down. Five vehicles have also been burnt.
It said; "The military and police detachment in the three areas however are being maintained until peace, stability and normalcy return to the area.
"The ban on all persons in the Bawku Municipal area, Zabugu and Garu townships and their environs from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapons still remains force", the statement added.