Fresh threats of arson in Yendi

Yendi (N/R), April 12, GNA - Residents of Yendi are now living in fear following threats from both the Andani and Abudu Gates to burn down the houses of perceived opponents after 19 compound houses were torched on Tuesday afternoon.

Some of the residents told the Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Abubakar Saddique Boniface, who went to inspect the affected areas, that they had received threats that their houses would be burnt down. Alhaji Boniface appealed to the security personnel to intensify their patrols to secure the township from any fresh attacks. Arsonists, some of whom have been arrested and detained at the Yendi Police Station, on Tuesday burnt down houses at Balogu and Nayilifong areas of Yendi.

Meanwhile, victims of the arson are putting up with relatives and friends. The Yendi District National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) Officials could not tell the GNA how many people had been displaced following the arson.

The Regional Minister appealed to the people to give peace a chance by comporting themselves and allowing the other processes towards the funeral of the Ya-Na Yakubu Andani II, King of Dagbon, to go on without any hindrance.

Alhaji Boniface said the Yendi District Security Committee would institute investigations into the arson and those found involved would be brought to book.

Some of the victims were seen lamenting the situation while others were in tears and in confused mood. Some had put their hands on their heads while others had crossed their hands on their chests, looking dejected and withdrawn.

A victim, Madam Bawa Sana told the GNA that the fire had burnt everything of hers and it would be difficult for her to cater for her eight children and 10 grandchildren some of whom were in school.

Mr Walvis Hudu, Yendi District Officer of the National Youth Council, whose vehicle and house were vandalized by the youth was said to have escaped for fear of his life. He had not returned at the time the Regional Minister and his team got to his house. Meanwhile, Yendi is calm and people are going about their normal businesses.