As our society continues to grapple with the threat of violent extremism, it becomes increasingly crucial to safeguard our youth against falling prey to the influence of extremist groups. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Edmond Yaw Asante, Upper East Regional Crime Officer, recently emphasized the significance of protecting the youth from engaging in activities that could lead to violent crimes within our communities.
During a community engagement session with the Kantia community in the Bolgatanga East District of the Upper East Region, DSP Asante highlighted the vulnerability of young people to being manipulated by extremists to perpetrate violent acts. He described the youth as the 'oxygen' of every community, underscoring their pivotal role and the need to shield them from exploitation by extremist elements.
The dialogue session, organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and sponsored by the European Union, aimed to address the issue of violent extremism and vigilantism at the district level, particularly in anticipation of the 2024 general elections. It provided a platform for the security services and community members to interact, fostering trust and diffusing suspicion.
DSP Asante cautioned against underestimating the presence of strangers in the community, emphasizing that extremists often target vulnerable individuals and exploit their circumstances to draw them into criminal activities. He urged community members to be vigilant, report any suspicious activities to the authorities, and resist the influence of strangers offering gifts and donations, which could be a tactic employed by extremist groups to lure the youth.
Furthermore, he emphasized the destructive impact of extremist activities on communities, ranging from economic repercussions to environmental damages and the erosion of cultural values. The potential for such actions to disrupt the fabric of society cannot be overstated, making it imperative for communities to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these threats.
Ms. Saadia Baba Sampana, District Director of NCCE, reiterated the importance of fostering sustainable democracy through citizen sensitization. She emphasized the need for closer collaboration between communities and law enforcement agencies, particularly in light of the porous borders and the prevalence of extremist activities in neighboring countries.
In conclusion, DSP Asante urged communities to prioritize conflict mediation and engagement as a means to curb extremism. By promoting open dialogue and discouraging the involvement of strangers in social gatherings, communities can mitigate the risk of extremist influence on impressionable youth.
The dialogue session served as a valuable opportunity for community members to gain insights into the strategies for preventing and containing violent extremism, ultimately reinforcing the role of collective vigilance in safeguarding our communities. As we look towards the future, it is imperative that we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting our youth from the insidious influence of extremist groups.
-source GNA | curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
