The Mamprugu Youth Association (MAYA) has strongly condemned the recent spate of attacks on travellers along the Bolga-Walewale-Tamale Highway and the Bolga-Bawku-Pulmakoom Highway in the North East and Upper East regions.
The association has described these violent incidents as both morally reprehensible and religiously unacceptable, calling on those responsible to halt the attacks immediately and allow peace to prevail.
In a statement released by MAYA, the group not only denounced the actions of the perpetrators but also criticised the military’s handling of the situation, accusing them of unprofessional conduct and the brutalisation of innocent community members.
According to the association, civilians who are already enduring emotional and psychological distress due to the ongoing insecurity should not be subjected to further inhumane treatment.
They argue that such military actions will only escalate tensions rather than resolve the crisis.
MAYA said for the past three years, numerous attacks on vehicles travelling along the Bolga-Bawku-Pulmakoom Highway, particularly in the Binduri and Pusiga districts, have led to tragic loss of lives and destruction of property.
The association noted that three separate attacks have been carried out since President John Dramani Mahama took office, all of which specifically targeted vehicles under military escort. Despite this, no curfews have been imposed in those areas, raising concerns about a perceived disparity in security responses.
The association further criticised what it described as the “unfair and excessive” security measures being implemented in the North East Region, particularly in the Walewale enclave.
MAYA expressed concern over what it says are the indiscriminate brutalities being inflicted on innocent community members while the perpetrators of the highway attacks remain at large.
They stressed that imposing a curfew on Walewale and its environs was a “lazy approach” to addressing the problem and called on authorities to treat the people of Walewale fairly.
MAYA also confirmed that the military’s excessive force had resulted in the tragic death of a young man who had no involvement in the incidents, while several others sustained life-threatening injuries.
The association called on authorities to ensure justice for the affected communities and implement measures that prioritise the protection and well-being of all citizens.
Additionally, MAYA urged the government to immediately halt the ongoing military operations and handle matters relating to the Bawku chieftaincy conflict with neutrality and fairness to prevent further escalation. The association also appealed to the youth to exercise restraint and remain law-abiding during these difficult times.
The Mamprugu Youth Association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and security in the region, and called for dialogue, fairness, and a strategic approach to addressing the security challenges in the area to ensure lasting peace and stability.
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