The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) says it has transitioned from peacekeeping to peace enforcement operations in Bawku and surrounding areas.

This follows a directive by the President and Commander-in-Chief, John Dramani Mahama.

According to the military, the decision became necessary due to the “activities of armed elements that have intermittently resulted in violence, reprisal attacks and innocent deaths.”

The Armed Forces warns that the situation highlights “a dangerous pattern that threatens not only Bawku but also the peace and security of our dear Nation.”

The enforcement operations will cover Bawku, Binduri, Nalerigu, and Zebilla.

The military says it will undertake “robust and purposeful operations that would enhance community protection, while ensuring sanity returns to affected areas.”

It warns that it will “use all necessary force to restore law and order” and urges all citizens to respect the law and adhere to all restrictions.

The curfew in the affected areas is now from 2 pm to 6 am and “will be enforced to the letter.”

The Armed Forces appeals to all well-meaning Ghanaians, especially the people in the targeted communities, to “cooperate with the security forces.”

It adds that “any attempt at distracting the operations and activities of the force in place, including attack on the security personnel, will be met with an appropriate response.”

The military assures the public that it “remains firmly committed and in readiness to execute its constitutional mandate to ensure that the country is peaceful and its citizens are safe.”