Effutu Member of Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on the police and other security agencies to quickly investigate the deadly violence in New Winneba and arrest anyone found to be responsible.
Three people were killed and 15 others injured after individuals from Gomoa Oguakrom, Gomoa Yenkuadze and Gomoa Pomadze allegedly entered New Winneba and attacked residents.
Speaking in an interview, Mr Afenyo-Markin questioned how a group of young people from the three neighbouring communities, allegedly carrying guns, machetes and clubs, could enter New Winneba in broad daylight without being stopped by security personnel.
“My word to the Police, and I speak directly to the divisional commander. ACP, divisional commander, please. I have always told you to be firm. Please be firm and keep the peace,” he said.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said the police must show that they are in control by identifying those behind the violence and making sure they face justice.
“This was not done in the night. It’s broad daylight, morning, walking, and chanting one song to another community,” he said.
He also raised concerns about the security intelligence available before the attack, especially since there is a police station in the area.
“What did they do? What were their early warnings? These are quite disturbing,” he said.
The Minority Leader called on the Central Regional Police Command to work with Police Headquarters to identify both those who organised the attack and those who took part in it.
“If indeed the Regional Command, assisted by the headquarters of Ghana Police, join forces and they get into the community day and night, within a week, I am very positive that they will get to know all those behind,” he said.
He also called for investigations into where the weapons allegedly used in the attack came from, including the guns, machetes and clubs.
Mr Afenyo-Markin urged residents not to respond with revenge attacks. He warned that if those responsible are not dealt with properly, the situation could lead to more violence in the area.
“Nobody should take the law into his own hands or hers and plan any revenge,” he said.
He stressed that the main priority should now be to identify and prosecute those responsible, while working to restore peace and security in New Winneba and the surrounding communities.
