The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have assured the general public that they will deal with the “unprofessional conduct” of some soldiers who molested civilians in Wa in the Upper West Region.

A viral video on social media shows armed military officers brutalising some residents in the streets of Wa on Thursday (1 July 2021), allegedly over a missing mobile phone.

The spokesperson of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Cletus Awuni was also allegedly beaten by the officers.

“They hit my head about three times and my back, because they used the taser on my hands and my chest,” Awuni said.

In a statement, the military high command said: “This unprofessional conduct took place on Thursday, 1 July 2021 and at a time when the commanding officer of the soldiers, and the Chairman of the Regional Security Council were both out of town on official engagements. Internal disciplinary measures have been instituted to deal with all those who will be found culpable in this unprofessional conduct by the soldiers.”

The statement added: “In view of the seriousness of the matter, the Chief of the Army Staff is leading a high powered military delegation to Wa to meet the traditional and opinion leaders to find an amicable way of resolving this unfortunate incident. The delegation will also explore means to assuage the anger of the people and promote good neighbourliness.

“The Ghana Armed Forces once again wishes to assure the people of Wa and the general public that their safety is paramount at all times, as such would not condone any unprofessional conduct by any member of the force.”