The Upper West Regional Minister, Lawyer Charles Lwanga Puozuing, has called on residents to desist from attempting to intervene in the fight against illicit drug use in the region.
He said the regional task force is close to clamping down on peddlers and users alike, stating that they are “advanced with several findings awaiting action.”
Now we have a lot of information and plead with you elders that when we arrest someone, and you come over to plead for their release. I will call for your arrest
Speaking at the Chief Imam’s Educational Endowment Fund 3rd conference held at the Upper West Regional Library on Saturday, the Minister lamented the situation where young children stay out late to indulge in such nefarious activities. He strongly condemned the practice of community members pleading for the release of offenders, often using the local expression “tijaa bunyeni.”
“Now we have a lot of information and plead with you elders that when we arrest someone, and you come over to plead for their release. I will call for your arrest. You see, the ‘tijaa bunyeni’ is making you destroy our young people,” he stated.
The Minister sounded a stern warning to all involved in the chain of promoting the use of these substances to desist from it, emphasising that authorities are “closer to getting them.”
Lawyer Puozuing also revealed that these drugs are reportedly sold in boutiques, at lorry stations, drinking spots, at social gatherings, and by some mobile money (momo) vendors, identifying them as noted outlets.
You see, the ‘tijaa bunyeni’ is making you destroy our young people
He disclosed that the operation is experiencing delays because authorities are first dealing with security officials found to be involved in the drug trade.
“Why you are seeing the delay is because we are currently cleaning up the police, prisons, soldiers, and the force; some of them are also involved,” he said.
Additionally, the Minister hinted at an upcoming amnesty program to help remove illegal weapons from the system. The program is scheduled to run from November 11th to December 31st, allowing for the voluntary handing over of unregistered weapons in the area to help reduce crime and gun violence.
