Ho, Dec. 20, GNA - The Volta Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has banned the 2004 annual convention of the Apostle Revelations Society (ARS) at its international headquarters at New-Tadzewu in the Ketu District this December.

This is to prevent a likely breach of the peace as a result of persistent bickering between factions within the Church. Mr. Kwasi Owusu-Yeboa, Volta Regional Minister announced the decision at a Press briefing in Ho on Monday and explained that the decision was informed by credible security reports.

He said after the death of the Founder of the Church Mawufeame C.K. Wovenu, a series of conflicts had dogged the Church leading to court suits, threats and skirmishes.

"The crisscross state of confusion is consistently worsening and the REGSEC feels strongly that it must act to protect life and property," the Minister said.

He said it was a hard but necessary decision, and called on members of the Church to cooperate with the Security Agencies. Mr Owusu-Yeboa said some of the acts of lawlessness included a break into the Church Premises during which cash and other treasures of the Church were looted.

Mr Kofi Duku Arthur, Volta Regional Police Commander, who was at the briefing said there, would be heavy Police presence at New Tadzewu to enforce the decision.

He said the Security Services would be monitoring activities in all the branches of the Church in the region for prompt action, should there be an inkling of any likely disturbances.

The convention, an annual affair of the Church, which normally begins on December 24, affords members' worldwide the opportunity to renew their faith.