The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) recently issued a statement dated December 25, 2024, titled “Stop Misinforming the Public,” which seeks to explain the circumstances surrounding a recent incident at the 5th Infantry Battalion (5BN) Ammunition Depot. However, the explanations provided by GAF have left many unanswered questions and raised serious concerns. As Ghanaians, we deserve clarity and honesty, especially when it comes to sensitive matters involving national security.
In their statement, GAF claimed that a vehicle entered the Ammunition Depot to deliver live cows that were to be quarantined and later relocated to a location near the depot. While this explanation may seem simple on the surface, a closer look reveals glaring inconsistencies and raises doubts about the accuracy of their narrative.
First, we must ask: When did the Ghana Armed Forces begin using their Ammunition Depots as quarantine facilities for cows? Traditionally, such facilities are highly secured areas meant for storing arms and ammunition. They are not open to casual activities, and any use outside of this purpose must be clearly justified. The public has not been informed of any change in this policy.
Another question arises regarding the presence of key personnel at the site. According to GAF’s explanation, the Commanding Officer (CO) of the unit and the Operations Warrant Officer (WO) were directly involved in this incident. However, these officials are not responsible for managing animals or quarantine procedures. The unit’s Provo, who oversees animals, and other relevant officers, such as the Cook IC and the Storeman, were notably absent. Why were those tasked with animal management not present?
Let us also address the movement of the vehicle itself. Eyewitness accounts and evidence suggest that the pickup truck entered the Ammunition Depot with an empty bucket, which was uncovered. However, when it exited the depot, the bucket was covered. This raises a critical question: If the vehicle was there only to deliver a cow, why was the bucket empty upon entry, and why was it covered upon exit? What was being hidden?
Moreover, accessing an Ammunition Depot is no small matter. These areas are strictly restricted, and even soldiers must have explicit authorization to enter. The keys to the depot are typically under the control of the Commanding Officer, and entry is heavily monitored. Can GAF produce evidence of the necessary access permits for this vehicle and its personnel? If the vehicle truly carried a cow, what proof can GAF provide to back this claim?
There is also the issue of record-keeping. Every vehicle or person entering or exiting an Ammunition Depot must be logged in the Sentry’s movement records book. This ensures that all activities are properly documented. Can GAF provide these records to confirm the details of this vehicle, its driver, and the purpose of its visit?
Beyond these technicalities, there is a larger issue of trust. Ghanaians expect the Armed Forces to operate with integrity and transparency. The explanations offered by GAF in this instance feel more like an attempt to obscure the truth rather than reveal it. It is troubling to think that an institution as respected as the Ghana Armed Forces would release a statement that appears to mislead the public.
We must also consider the actions of the Commanding Officer and the Operations Warrant Officer. Why did it take such high-ranking officials to oversee the delivery of a cow? This task, if legitimate, should have been handled by the Provo and other lower-ranking personnel responsible for animal management. The involvement of the CO and WO raises serious suspicions about the true nature of this incident.
Furthermore, GAF’s statement fails to address key questions about the vehicles seen in the video circulating on social media. Which of these vehicles transported the cow to the depot? Why were individuals in civilian clothing present during the incident? And why has GAF not provided evidence to clarify these details?
As patriotic citizens, we demand answers. We challenge GAF to provide full transparency by sharing the Sentry’s movement records, access permits, and any other relevant documentation. These records will either confirm or disprove their claims, and the public has a right to know the truth.
The Ghana Armed Forces belong to all of us, and their reputation is built on the trust of the people. The leadership of GAF must prioritize the integrity and respect of the institution over any personal or political interests. If it is found that Lt. Col. Owusu Afriyie and WO Owusu Twum acted inappropriately, they must be held accountable.
We are calling on GAF to thoroughly investigate this incident and provide clear, honest answers to the public. The credibility of the Armed Forces is at stake, and it is our collective responsibility to protect this noble institution from actions that may tarnish its image.
Signed,
Azubila Emmanuel Abdul-Salam
Executive Secretary, Anchoring Democracy Advocacy Movement Ghana (ADAM-GH)
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