Community leaders at Kwame Danso in the Bono East Region have issued a strong condemnation and a public apology following a recent attack on the district court and police station in the area by unidentified assailants.

The incident has led to the immediate closure of both institutions, sparking fear among residents and appeals for the restoration of order.

Speaking at a press conference organised by the Dwan Youth Association, Alfred Myanko, Vice-Chairman of the Kwame Danso Concerned Members, expressed deep regret on behalf of chiefs, elders, women, men, children, and vulnerable groups in the district.

“We condemn the action of the perpetrators in no uncertain terms,” Mr Myanko stated. “We see this as an act of hooliganism and a flagrant disregard for the rule of law.”

The attack, which was carried out by persons claiming to be youth from Kwame Danso, has drawn widespread concern and prompted an emergency response from regional and district authorities.

Mr Myanko emphasised that the people of Kwame Danso are peace-loving and were taken aback by the negative national attention.

“We were completely taken aback when news of our district occupied the headlines for the wrong reasons,” he said.

The press conference served three primary purposes: to condemn the attack, to plead with the Judicial Service and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to reconsider the closure of the court and police station, and to call for inclusive dialogue in resolving the situation.

Mr Myanko warned that the absence of these key institutions is already creating anxiety in the community.

“Barely 24 hours after the closure, people are now beginning to live in fear and panic because some may take the law into their own hands,” he explained.

He reiterated the community’s commitment to collaborate with security agencies to ensure justice is served and normalcy restored.

“In unity, in humanity, and with a sincere desire to move forward, we say we are sorry,” Mr Myanko affirmed.

The leaders plan to follow up with official visits to the Judicial Service and the office of the IGP to discuss the way forward for reopening the court and police station.

The appeal highlights the critical role of these institutions in maintaining security and justice, especially in remote districts, and underscores the community's desire to uphold peace and the rule of law.

Owusu Danquah Acheampong, a member of the group, emphasised that “the absence of the police in the area will increase insecurity, with armed robbery cases already on the rise due to the inadequate police presence in the District”.