Ensure security at your places of worship – National Security Ministry warns of terrorist attacks
The National Security Ministry has advised all religious groups in the country to institute security measures in their various places of worship.
According to the Ministry, there is a growing threat of terrorism in the subregion, and the expansionist drive of terrorist groups towards the coastal West-African States, with a renewed modus operandi of targeting public gatherings, including places of worship.
The Ministry in its statement further revealed that although it is collaborating with the relevant State Security and Intelligence Agencies to institute measures to avert terrorist attacks in the country, it is imperative that these religious groups also enhance security “, particularly in areas where mass gatherings are conducted.”
“These measures may include, but are not limited to, the installation of CCTV cameras at designated places of worship, and engaging the services of approved Private security guards, among others.”
The Ministry once again assured Ghanaians of its unbridled commitment to the security of all citizens.
“Although the above directive has become necessary, the Ministry of National Security assures you of our continuous resolve to institute measures aimed at safeguarding the peace and security of the country.”
Also, the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism in its recent report warned that Ghana is at high risk of terrorism following pockets of civil, political, and social unrest in parts of the West African subregion.
It said threats of violent extremism are heavily descending towards coastal states from the Sahel regions and that Ghana may not be spared, given the happenings in its neighbouring countries.
Factors such as chieftaincy and ethnic disputes, land conflicts, marginalization of vulnerable groups, and high youth unemployment make Ghana very susceptible to threats of terrorism, the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism noted.
