Tamale, Dec. 23, GNA - The Deputy Northern Regional Minister, Mr Charles Bintim, has commended the security agencies for the able manner in which they have sustained peace in Northern Ghana. "Had it not been you, peace would have eluded us especially in the Northern Region and you need to be commended for your high sense of duty as well as the professionalism you have shown in maintaining peace in the areas," he declared.

Mr Bintim made the commendation during the annual celebration of the West African Soldiers Social Activities (WASSA) of the Six Battalion of Infantry at the Kamina Barracks in Tamale on Monday. The occasion brought together members of the Regional Security Council, Heads of Departments, and the general public to interact and make merry with the soldiers.

WASSA originated from the Second World War when soldiers from West Africa commemorated their victory in the war.

Mr Bintim reminded the soldiers of the recent resurgence of armed robbery in the Tamale Metropolis and urged them to co-operate with the police and the public to arrest the perpetrators.

He pledged the support of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and that of the district assemblies to improve conditions in the districts for soldiers on peace keeping.

Lt-Col Omane Agyekum Williams, Commanding Officer of the Unit reminded the soldiers about the general election next year and urged them to support civil authorities to ensure free and fair elections, especially in the Northern Region.

Lt-Col. Williams commended the Media for the accurate reportage on the Dagbon crisis, saying, "your accurate reports on the crisis have contributed immensely to the maintenance of peace in the area.