Government has eased restrictions on motorbike riding in Bawku Municipality and its environs in the Upper East Region, allowing both men and women to ride between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.

The revised arrangement takes effect on Monday, August 25, following a review by the Minister for the Interior on the advice of the National Security Council and through an Executive Instrument.

Under the new directive, residents will be permitted to ride motorbikes during the 12-hour daytime period, representing a relaxation of restrictions that have previously affected motorbike use in the area.

The Interior Ministry said the decision was taken as part of measures concerning security and public order in Bawku Municipality and surrounding communities.

The revised directive specifically permits both men and women to ride motorbikes from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day.

The government has, however, maintained restrictions covering the night-time period.

The easing of the motorbike restriction does not affect the existing curfew, which remains in force from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

The government has also maintained a total ban on the possession and carrying of arms, ammunition and offensive weapons within Bawku Municipality and its environs.

According to the directive, all persons within the affected area are prohibited from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapons.

The government warned that anyone found in possession of arms or ammunition would be arrested and prosecuted.

The government has also appealed to traditional leaders, community leaders and residents to exercise restraint in responding to the challenges confronting the area.

It specifically called on Chiefs, Elders, Opinion Leaders, Youth and the people of Bawku to help promote peace and stability.

The government urged residents to use non-violent means to express their concerns and channel their energies towards finding peaceful solutions to the challenges facing the municipality and its surrounding communities.