The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, has condemned the latest killing in Nkwanta South, warning that government may be forced to tighten security measures, including reviewing existing curfew hours, if violence persists.

The minister’s reaction follows the fatal attack on 25-year-old food vendor, Richmond Benye Ayitey, on Saturday, May 3, 2026, an incident that has heightened tensions in the municipality amid an ongoing conflict.

Describing the killing as “barbaric and unacceptable,” Mr. Gyapong, speaking on behalf of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, extended condolences to the bereaved family and called for calm as security agencies intensify investigations.

He assured residents that authorities have been directed to act decisively to restore order and protect lives and property. According to him, all those responsible for the attack will be tracked down and made to face the full rigours of the law.

The minister stressed that impunity will not be tolerated, adding that the Oti Regional Security Council remains committed to restoring lasting peace in the area.

He also cautioned that no individual or group would be allowed to destabilise the municipality or undermine the relative peace efforts made by residents.

Mr. Gyapong urged feuding factions to immediately cease hostilities and resort to lawful and traditional mechanisms to resolve their differences, emphasising that dialogue remains the only acceptable path to peace.

Meanwhile, he expressed concern over reports that two suspects previously arrested with ammunition and a weapon have been released, an issue he said has further heightened fear and anxiety among residents.

According to the minister, such developments risk eroding public confidence and complicating ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions.

He warned that authorities may be compelled to review current security arrangements if the situation worsens, noting that curfew hours in Nkwanta could be reverted from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. if instability continues.

Mr. Gyapong further appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by volunteering credible information and refraining from actions or rhetoric that could inflame tensions.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over security in Nkwanta South, where authorities have been working to contain recurring unrest and prevent further escalation.