The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has cautioned the public against calls for attacks on soldiers and other security personnel.
According to the Ghana Armed Forces, such calls pose a significant threat to the security and stability of the nation and is unlawful.
” We wish to assure all and Sundry GAF will continue to perform it’s duties of safeguarding the security of the state and protection of civilians. It is also crucial to understand that personnel of GAF and sister security agencies are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights in the execution of their duties”, it added.
It said “in a situation where a soldier misconducts him/herself, the soldier should be reported to the nearest police station or military barracks for the appropriate disciplinary action to be taken “.
“It is important to note that, soldiers like any individual, have the right to self-defense when faced with threats or attack that pose a danger to their lives or the lives of others. In situations where soldiers are confronted with immediate threats or acts of violence, they are allowed to use necessary and proportionate force to protect themselves and others. It must be noted that the outcome of such avoidable confrontations may be unpleasant and dire”.
GAF condemned any form of incident of violence against their soldiers and wish to encourage the public to channel grievances and concerns through the department of Public Relations of the Ghana Armed Forces.
GAF’s caution comes after a viral video of the NPP Parliamentary Candidate in the Amenfi East Constituency of Western Region, Ernest Frimpong. In the video Ernest Frimpong is heard urging persons suspected to be involved in small-scale mining to resist arrest by soldiers.