The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Samuel Basintale Amadu, has indicated that the curfew imposed on Hamile could be reviewed and eventually lifted if residents demonstrate sustained commitment to peace and refrain from violence against security personnel.
He gave the indication during a visit to the troubled border community, where he engaged traditional authorities, opinion leaders, youth leaders and other stakeholders following a deadly explosion that triggered violent disturbances.
The community leaders, during the engagement, appealed for the lifting of the curfew and reopening of the Hamile border to vehicular traffic to restore commercial activities and ease the economic hardship caused by the restrictions.
Mr Amadu acknowledged that the imposition of the curfew was necessary under the prevailing circumstances to maintain law and order but expressed optimism that it could be reviewed if residents cooperated with security agencies.
He urged the various groups in the community to set aside their differences, embrace reconciliation and work together to prevent further disturbances.
Describing the incident as unfortunate and regrettable, the Comptroller-General called on residents and stakeholders to support security agencies in safeguarding peace and stability, particularly amid prevailing security challenges in the West African sub-region.
The unrest followed an explosion on November 3, 2026, involving a tricycle reportedly transporting dynamite through an unapproved route towards neighbouring Burkina Faso.
The explosion claimed the lives of an immigration officer and two civilians, while another immigration officer sustained injuries.
The Member of Parliament for Lambussie, Prof. Titus Kofi Beyuo, subsequently disclosed that 13 people, all males, sustained injuries during the explosion.
The incident triggered anger among sections of the youth, who took to the streets, burning car tyres and attempting to set ablaze structures and offices belonging to the Immigration Service.
Two civilians were also reportedly shot in the legs by military personnel during efforts to prevent attacks on Immigration Service installations.
The disturbances prompted the deployment of military personnel and the imposition of a curfew by the Interior Minister, initially from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am before it was reviewed to 10:00 pm to 4:00 am, effective November 5.
The Comptroller-General also inspected the scene of the explosion, which has been cordoned off and remains under investigation, before visiting the bereaved families to convey his condolences.
He subsequently addressed officers at the Hamile Sector Command, urging them to remain professional, disciplined and exercise restraint in the discharge of their duties despite the challenges they face.
He commended the officers for their dedication and resilience and also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Upper West Regional Security Council and the Border Security Council in maintaining security in the area.
The visit formed part of efforts to assess the security situation, engage affected communities and strengthen cooperation between residents and security agencies.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
