General News of Tuesday, 1 January 2008

Source: AFP

Curfew on Bawku ; Four dead

Bawku is under dusk to dawn curfew following communal clashes that have claimed at least four lives and led to destruction of property.
The curfew on Bawku in the north-eastern corner was announced in Accra on Tuesday by the Interior Minister, Kwamena Bartels.
The communal violence involving the Mamprusi and Kusasis started on Monday during the Samanpiid festival celebrated every year to foster unity and thank God for guarding them throughout the year.
A statement by the Minister of the Interior also announced a ban on the carrying of arms in the communities.
Bartels said more police personnel had been sent to the town to maintain peace and order.
About 12 people have been taken into custody for their alleged role in the violence.
However, Chief Superintendent of Police Peter Kin Gyinae said three people who were allegedly shot on Monday could not be associated with communal violence.
He said criminals suspected to be Fulanis took advantage of the Samanpid festival to create confusion with the intention of stealing cattle and in the process killed three people thereby sparking mayhem.