National security revamps terrorism preparedness, urges public vigilance

The National Security Council has revamped anti-terrorism preparedness and advised that the general public be cautious and vigilant as there is a considerable terrorist threat to all countries in the West African sub-region.

This follows a meeting held yesterday, March 15 to review the country’s security and intelligence on extremist activities in the sub-region, following recent terrorist attacks in Mali, Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire.

Al Qaeda in the Maghreb claimed respnsibility for an attack on the beach resort L’Etoie du Sud in neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire which claimed the lives of about 18, and for a previous attack on the Capuccino Restaurant and Splendid Hotel in Ouagadougou, which killed about 30 and wounded 56.

According to a statement signed by Communications Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah, the council, chaired by Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces President John Mahama, will review the situation on a continuous basis.

“In view of the conventional wisdom that security is a shared responsibility, the Council has advised that the general public be vigilant, cautious and curious, and report any unusual circumstances to the law enforcement agencies.”

“The Council further urges all Ghanaians and other nationals resident in Ghana to bear with security measures that may be enforced at various locations from time to time for the purpose of public safety,” the statement said.

By Emmanuel Odonkor