Winneba (C/R) May 02 GNA-The Awutu-Effutu-Senya District Security Committee (DISEC) had assured the people in the area of enough protection during the celebration of the on the going Aboakyer festival of the chiefs and people of Effutu Traditional Area. The Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Solomon Quarshie Abam-Quaye, who is also the District Chief Executive for the area, gave the assurance in an interview with the Ghana News Agency at Winneba on Wednesday. Mr. Abam-Quaye said it is not true that Winneba is on fire as have been published by some sections of the media , adding that currently there is absolute peace and tranquility in the area, particularly the district capital, Winneba and that the people have started celebrating the festival.

The DCE was expressed regret that people do not contact those in authority in the district before publishing damaging news about the district, adding that such publications create panic and scare investors to the area. Mr. Nicholas Gasu, Winneba District Police Commander in another interview said the peace presently in the district is far better than the previous years and therefore condemned reports that there is no peace in the area.

Mr. Gasu said the Police Administration has put in place adequate security measures during the celebration of the festival to protect lives and properties, especially on Saturday, May 5 2007. On that day, which is the Aboakyer day, the two Asafo companies would go into the bush and capture a live deer to present to the Omanhene at the durbar ground.

He stressed that security measures have been put in place, adding that the police would be deplored in Winneba township, as has been the practice.

Meanwhile in a regatta competition as part of the celebration of the Aboakyer festival on Tuesday, Enyanda group came first, followed by Egyapa group, while Fast group was third. Six groups took part in the 200-meter-long boat paddling competition on the sea.

During the Tag-of war competition, Hustlers came first, with Fast taking the second position. They were presented with bottles of Paramount Gin, cash and soap awards.