Returnees who are still trooping the western regional borders from the Ivory Coast have now increased to a whooping five hundred and seventy four (574). Reliable sources say the current number could double in the coming days owing to the worsening power crises between beleaguered president Laurent Gbagbo and internationally recognized president Alassane Ouatarra. Officials of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) say majority of these returnees include more women and children who have lost one or two relations in the heat of the crisis but managed to make their way to Ghana. The long journey of fatigue and hunger has also put them in bad health conditions. Speaking to Adom News, Western Regional Coordinator of NADMO Mr Japheth Baidoo says that the returnees were living in pathetic conditions when they located them. He cited examples where some of the women and their children camped on beaches around Princess Town and Akatakyie all in the Ahanta West district because they have not been properly housed. He was particularly worried about the children who have abandoned school as a result of the political impasse and has appealed to various organizations and stakeholders to help NADMO take care of. Meanwhile, a meeting will be held in Accra tomorrow by the Joint Regional Operation Team codenamed "Quagbo" whose main aim is to ensure that the unfolding events in Cote d'lvoire does not have adverse effects on Ghana. The meeting will be chaired by the National NADMO boss Kofi Portophy and will among other matters focus on reviewing the current situation in the French speaking country and find a way forward. Story by Maame Esi Nyamekye Thompson/Adom News