Otumfuo tasks IGP to restore public confidence
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has charged the Inspector-General of Police, James Oppong Boanuh to confront security issues that undermine the peace and stability of the country.
Citing the recent killing of the Mfantseman MP, Ekow Quansah Hayford in a suspected robbery attack, the Asantehene expressed worry about the proliferation of arms among civilians.
He challenged the police administration to bring finality to criminal cases reported to their outfit in order for the general public to have confidence in them.
“Since you are here, I want to talk about the rampant killings on our highways of which some MPs have even been affected. People are not comfortable with that. This has created fear and panic among the populace. They [armed robbers] at times block roads and rob people of their belongings. But I know that with the training you’ve received if you decide to investigate to get to the bottom of any issue, you will be able to do that.
“You should therefore do that for Ghanaians to have confidence in the police institution. I read in the newspapers that there has been a proliferation of small arms among the populace. Why should it be so? If it happens that those of us you are supposed to protect are rather acquiring arms then it means they have lost confidence in you. You have to critically look at that. You have to do your work well to ensure peace in the country,” Otumfuo said when the IGP paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia palace.
The IGP assured the Asantehene that measures have been instituted by his outfit to deal with robbery attacks.
Otumfuo also advised the youth to be vigilant and not allow politicians to use them as agents to foment trouble during the elections.
Police administration’s preparation ahead of the 2020 general elections
The Ghana Police Service has assured everything is set to ensure a peaceful and smooth electoral process.
The IGP, James Oppong Boanuh, during a one-day tour of the Ashanti Region witnessed a simulation exercise by the police in the region.
The police used the simulation exercise to demonstrate their readiness to deal with incidents that may arise, before, during, and after the election.
The IGP warned that the police will deal severely with persons who may foment trouble in the December polls; adding that the necessary logistics have been provided to ensure the security of Ghanaians and the process.
Based on the unpleasant incidents recorded in some areas during the voter’s registration exercise, Mr. Oppong Boanuh says some areas have been identified as hotspots, and as such, special security arrangements would be made in those areas.