By Frank Kwame Abbor
Abutia-Teti (V/R), Jan. 13, GNA – Togbega Abutia Kodzo Gidi V, Paramount Chief of the Abutia Traditional Area, has condemned the killing of a Kalakpa Game Reserve officer, demanding the maximum punishment for the perpetrator.
He described the act as barbaric and unacceptable within his jurisdiction, stressing that such an incident must never recur.
The Paramount Chief called for the highest possible penalty to serve as a deterrent, stating that fines were inadequate punishment.
“I don’t want to hear that the person will be fined GH¢3,000 or GH¢4,000 and walk freely in town,” he said.
He noted that information available to him suggested the suspect was a habitual poacher and said he would prefer life imprisonment for the offender.
Togbega Abutia Kodzo Gidi V urged the government to take decisive action to secure the Kalakpa Game Reserve or return it to its original owners for self-management.
He proposed the introduction of military patrols or the establishment of a permanent military camp within the reserve to curb killings and illegal activities.
According to him, government and traditional authorities must jointly agree on effective measures to protect the reserve and ensure the safety of personnel.
The Paramount Chief expressed appreciation to members of the District Security Committee (DISEC) for their visit and show of solidarity.
He also lamented the inadequate logistics available to officers guarding the reserve and appealed to the government to resource them adequately to enhance their effectiveness.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Audrey Dekalu