The Member of Parliament for Mpraeso in the Eastern Region, Davis Ansah Opoku, has expressed deep concern over the recent outbreak of violence in Bepong and the subsequent police response that resulted in one fatality and injuries to several others.
The Honorable Davis Ansah Opoku in a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, February 6 2024, condemned the reported use of live ammunition by the police to control the agitated crowd.
He, however, stressed the need for an immediate de-escalation of the increasing police presence in the area and urged a shift towards dialogue and peaceful resolution.
According to the ruling New Patriotic Party Member of Parliament, the people of Bepong are not at war with anyone and do not intend to attack anyone, including the police, hence the need for the officers of the Ghana Police Service deployed to the area to act accordingly.
“I am deeply troubled by the recent outbreak of violence in Bepong and the subsequent police response in the community. The reported use of live ammunition by police to control the agitated crowd, resulting in one fatality and injuries to others, is unacceptable and demands immediate revaluation”.
Davis Ansah Opoku
MP Bemoans The Impact Of Police Heavy Presence On Economic Activities In Bepong
Furthermore, the Honorable Davis Ansah Opoku noted with deep concern the economic repercussions the actions and the subsequent presence of the police have had on the area.
He recounted that the various economic activities in Bepong and its environs have all stalled due to the heightened police presence, with farm produce such as bananas rotting as people fear for their lives.
The Honorable Davis Ansah Opoku emphasized the need for a swift resolution to enable the resumption of normal economic activities and the transportation of goods to larger markets in Accra and Kumasi.
Moreover, the Mpraeso Member of Parliament called upon all residents, especially the youth of Bepong, to remain calm and peaceful amidst the unfortunate violence incident in the area.
He urged unity in efforts to restore harmony and security within the community, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence.
In addition, the Honorable Davis Ansah Opoku extended his thoughts to the victims and their families, and further called on all stakeholders, including the Ghana Police Service, to prioritize dialogue over force in resolving the ongoing situation.
It is recalled that on Sunday, February 4 2024, there was a shooting incident in Kwahu Bepong with the incident resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries caused by stray bullets fired by the police during an attempt to disperse a hostile crowd.
The incident has also forced the Kwahu South Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) to order the closure of schools in the area.
According to media reports, the Ghana Police Service has detained 71 individuals and increased their presence in the town, prompting many youths to flee the area to avoid potential arrest amid ongoing police investigations.
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