Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has criticized the military over reported brutalities inflicted on civilians in Bawku on Tuesday, in response to the murder of an officer.

While acknowledging the tragic loss of the military officer, Mr Ayariga insisted that retaliatory attacks on innocent civilians were unjustifiable.

Per reports, women, children, and elderly residents have been subjected to all sorts of maltreatment. The legislator is demanding full accountability from the military regarding their conduct.

"I regret the accidental killing of a military personnel and I condemn that dastardly act," he stated. "However, ransacking homes, beating innocent civilians, and holding the entire town to ransom cannot be justified. The rule of law must prevail, and those responsible for maintaining order should never engage in such acts of violence."

Mr Ayariga who doubles as the Majority Leader in Parliament called on the military leadership and local authorities to collaborate in investigating the killing of the soldier rather than resorting to what he described as indiscriminate aggression.

He extended his condolences to the bereaved family of the fallen soldier and urged restraint on all sides.

Expressing disappointment that his earlier appeals for the military to act with caution were ignored, he lamented, "I regret that the military command did not heed my appeal not to react violently, and they went ahead to do what they did. We need to work together to restore peace."

Looking ahead, Mr Ayariga expressed hope that all parties involved in the Bawku conflict would trust in the peace mediation efforts led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II.

"I have confidence that all sides will repose trust in His Majesty the Asantehene to bring finality to the situation in Bawku and end the violence we are experiencing," he stated.

The MP reiterated his commitment to advocating for peace and ensuring that justice is served for the victims of both the initial attack and the military’s response.