The youth of Nalerigu have condemned recent "criminal incidents' involving the burning of two houses and an attempted arson attack on a vehicle, describing the acts as isolated crimes that should not be misinterpreted as communal, tribal, or factional conflict.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, December 30, the youth stated that Nalerigu remains a peaceful and united town, known for its long-standing harmony among people of diverse ethnic and tribal backgrounds.

They stressed that the unfortunate incidents must be treated strictly as criminal matters and not allowed to damage the town's reputation.

According to the youth leadership, efforts are ongoing to educate young people in the area to refrain from misconduct and to fully cooperate with security agencies.

They reaffirmed their commitment to peacebuilding and urged residents to comply with lawful directives aimed at maintaining public order.

“We wish to categorically assure all Ghanaians and the international community that there is no fighting in Nalerigu,” the statement noted.

“There has never been any form of communal conflict here. The peace and stability for which Nalerigu is known remain firmly intact.”

The youth further indicated that the alleged perpetrators of the recent incidents are believed to be non-indigenes, and they called on security agencies to intensify intelligence-led investigations to identify and arrest those responsible.

They appealed for the law to be applied professionally and decisively, without broad measures that affect innocent residents.

While expressing support for security operations, the youth raised serious concerns about the repeated imposition of curfews whenever criminal incidents occur.

They argued that such measures have caused undue hardship for law-abiding citizens and have unfairly portrayed Nalerigu as a conflict-prone area.

They raised concerns regarding the recent curfew restricting the riding of motorbikes and the wearing of smocks, noting that motorbikes are the primary means of transportation in Nalerigu, and the restrictions have significantly disrupted livelihoods, economic activities, and daily movement.

The youth, therefore, call on the relevant authorities to urgently review the curfew measures and adopt more targeted, intelligence-driven approaches that focus on criminals rather than the general population.

They reassured Ghanaians and the international community that the town remains peaceful, safe, and welcoming, and encouraged investors, visitors, and business partners to continue engaging with confidence.