District Chief Executive (DCE) for Garu, John Abaare, has admitted that residents of the community are living in fear following the deadly shooting on Monday that left four people dead and several others injured.
Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr. Abaare said the atmosphere in Garu remains tense as the perpetrators have not yet been arrested.
“I believe the people are scared, and we are all living in fear so long as those behind the attack have not been apprehended,” he said.
He acknowledged that, although as a leader he is expected to remain strong, the uncertainty surrounding the incident has left everyone unsettled.
“As a leader, I should not be the first to be scared, but as a human being, since we don’t know what is happening, we are all scared,” he admitted.
The DCE revealed that he joined security patrols in the area on Tuesday night to help restore calm. “I embarked on a few patrols last night; the security patrol is still in town,” he disclosed.
Mr. Abagre hinted that the attack could be linked to the long-standing Bawku conflict but stressed the need for peace and vigilance.
“We are in a beautiful country, but such incidents destroy the peace we cherish,” he lamented.
He further revealed that a Facebook page allegedly operated by individuals associated with the Mamprusi community had issued threats before the attack, but did not reveal the account name.
“They have also said the next target is a church. It is surprising that people make threats on Facebook, and the next minute they are carried out, and nothing is done about it,” he said.
The DCE called on security agencies to act swiftly to track those behind the threats.
“I’m not a security expert, but I believe they can be trailed. The security must be up and doing,” he urged.
Authorities have since increased patrols across Garu to restore confidence among residents and prevent further attacks.
Source: Gertrude Otchere
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