The Hanns Seidel Foundation assisted the Police in engaging 20 community leaders and other stakeholders, as well as 10 police officers, on Friday 6th October 2023 at the Blue-Sky Hotel in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region.
Mr. Jospeh Wusi Darison, Deputy Regional Police Commander, who addressed participants in the capacity of the Upper East Police regional commander gave an overview of the general crime situation in the region while highlighting the Dorba and Kandiga land dispute, which has existed for quite some time.
Other disputes include the Bolgatanga Central Chieftaincy dispute, the Protracted Bawku conflict, and terrorist infiltration from Burkina Faso. He advised the public to always alert the police about groupings of people perpetuating violence on law-abiding residents, by channeling the information to the appropriate commanders and assuring them of absolute confidentiality.
Representative of the Regional Chief Imam Mr. Adam Mustapha commended the Police for the engagement and stated the topic had come at the right time when there seems to be activities of violent crimes becoming common.
He urged the police to step up their intelligence gathering and be more proactive in fighting the sale and use of illegal drugs in the region.
“ I have observed that extremists can easily disguise themselves as Muslims and infiltrate vulnerable Muslim communities to perpetrate acts of violence. I implored everyone to report all suspicious people masquerading as Muslims to the Chief Imam” he said.
Mr. Adam believes that for positive peace to prevail, the following must be taken into consideration: Free flow of information, respect for the rights of others, and ensuring good neighbourliness. Taking a critical look at media orientation, ensuring equitable distribution of resources, and embracing selfless leaders.
Municipal Director of Education, Madam Estella Anne suggested that the program be extended to students at basic, junior, and senior high levels, which she believes will greatly benefit. She entreated all to ensure individual peace, family peace, community peace, and national peace.
