GAF issues strong warning against calls for attacks on soldiers
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has issued a stern caution to the public following the circulation of viral videos on social media encouraging attacks on soldiers and other security personnel.
A statement released by the GAF, strongly condemned such utterances, emphasizing their unlawfulness and the threat they pose to the nation’s security and stability.
“We wish to assure all and sundry that GAF will continue to perform its duties of safeguarding the security of the state and protection of civilians,” the statement read.
The GAF assured the general public of its commitment to upholding professionalism, discipline, and respect for human rights, and underscored the importance of reporting any misconduct by soldiers to the nearest police station or military barracks for appropriate disciplinary action.
The statement also clarified the right of soldiers to self-defense in the face of imminent threats or attacks, stressing the necessity of using necessary and proportionate force to protect themselves and others. However, it warned of the potential dire consequences of confrontations arising from such situations.
“GAF wishes to remind and caution the public that assaulting or attacking soldiers is a grave offense punishable by law,” the statement reiterated, urging citizens to respect, cooperate with, and support soldiers while refraining from engaging in acts of violence or incitement against them.
The GAF encouraged the public to channel concerns or grievances through the Department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces, emphasizing an open-door policy for communication.
Meanwhile, the NPP parliamentary candidate in the Amenfi East constituency of Western Region, Ernest Frimpong, who was heard urging persons suspected to be involved in small-scale mining to resist arrests by soldiers in the viral video has since refuted the allegation that he has endorsed illegal mining and encouraged miners to resist military personnel.
Mr Frimpong claimed he was taken out of context from the two-hour engagement with artisanal small-scale miners.
