State of insecurity in Ghana: A study of Pru West and Pru East Districts

Abstract

The absence of threat to lives and properties is central to ensuring peace and harmony, as it plays a significant role in national socio-economic development. Ghana, a country described by some scholars as a relatively peaceful country in the West African sub-region has in recent times witness a surge in threats to lives and properties mostly from crime related incidents. The Pru West and Pru East districts in the Bono East Region of the country is one of the areas where these incidents have become rife. This study sought to investigate the state of insecurity in the two districts by looking at the factors accounting for the incidents, its effects on residents and measures which have been taken to address the issue. Qualitative research approach was used to carry out the study through the aid of an interview guide. Purposive sampling technique was utilized in the selection of research participants with a sample size of 16. The study revealed that the influx of Fulani herdsmen, poverty and unemployment, inadequate police personnel in the area were some of the major factors causing insecurity in the area. This has led to increase fear and worry, slow-down of economic activities among other effects on the residents of the area. It was also revealed that some measures have been taken by key stakeholders to address the issue such as the deployment of police anti-robbery squad. The study concludes that the Pru West and Pru East districts face multifaceted insecurity issues, mostly related to violent crime and attacks manifesting in various detrimental ways for the residents. However, stakeholders are actively engaged in implementing measures to combat the menace. The study recommends the deployment of adequate police personnel, creation of employment avenues, regulating the activities of Fulani herdsmen and regular stakeholder engagements with relevant actors in the Pru West and Pru East districts to assess and strategize the security situations.