TIG Post

Tag: Inspector General of Police

  • Police would have protected, not arrested Democracy Hub protestors in a serious country – Kpebu

    Police would have protected, not arrested Democracy Hub protestors in a serious country – Kpebu

    A Private Legal Practitioner, Martin Luther Kpebu, has criticized the arrests of participants in the Democracy Hub anti-galamsey protests, stating that such actions would be unimaginable in a serious country.

    He emphasized that when the environment is under threat due to pollution and the destruction of forests, citizens have no better way to voice their concerns than through protests.

    Mr Kpebu argued that the police’s claim that protesters were arrested for blocking roads is merely an excuse to divert attention from the critical issue of galamsey.

    In an appearance on TV3’s KeyPoints on September 28, 2024, he urged the Ghana Police Service to instead target individuals like Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party, who is known to be involved in illegal mining activities.

    He expressed his discontent over the fact that those behind illegal mining continue to evade justice while peaceful demonstrators advocating for environmental protection face arrest and detention beyond 48 hours.

    “In any serious country, these protestors wouldn’t have been arrested because what they did is called publicity stunt. They were doing that to bring the attention of the leaders to the issue,” he said.

    Previously, Mr. Kpebu demanded the resignation of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) due to the treatment of suspects in the anti-galamsey protests.

    During an appearance on Ghana Tonight on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the prominent lawyer pointed out that the state properties for which the police accused the protesters of destruction are not more valuable than human lives.

    He criticized the two-week remand, especially given the Supreme Court’s ruling that all offenses in the country are bailable.

    “A citizen’s life is more precious than the properties that are alleged to have been destroyed etc, so we are not punishing citizens when they have not been put to trial. The police don’t need them in custody for two weeks,” he stated.

    “That’s why I’m saying IGP has to go, he and Madam Andoh-Kwofie. We reported Akonta mining why didn’t they prosecute that case?” he asked, adding that a prosecution of the case would have had a serious effect on the fight against galamsey by serving as a deterrent to others.

    “He failed to prosecute Wontumi and also infringed on the rights of the demonstrators. He abused the rights of these citizens who were demonstrating,” Mr. Kpebu added.

    An Accra Circuit Court has ordered the remand of prominent members of Democracy Hub, including Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Felicity Nelson, and 11 others, into police custody for two weeks.

    The protesters, who pleaded not guilty, had their lawyers file for bail. Oliver Barker-Vormawor faces eight charges, including offensive conduct and stealing, while the other 12 members are charged with six offenses each.

    Judge Kwabena Obiri Yeboah, presiding over the case, directed the police to ensure the protesters are fed after reports emerged that they had been deprived of food for about three days.

    Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who missed his initial court appearance due to health issues, appeared at the circuit court limping and in a frail condition. His lawyer, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, claimed in court that the police had neglected his client’s medical needs, resulting in his collapse while in custody.

    In response to the protest’s violence, the police have refuted claims of using force during the Democracy Hub demonstration, despite facing provocations.

    They reported that 54 individuals were arrested during the event, all of whom have been processed through the court in accordance with legal protocols.

  • Supreme Court adjourns IMANI Africa’s case challenging presidential powers to remove public officers

    Supreme Court adjourns IMANI Africa’s case challenging presidential powers to remove public officers

    The Supreme Court has delayed a case brought forward by Imani Africa and Security Analyst Prof Kwesi Aning, challenging the President’s authority to dismiss key public officials like the Inspector General of Police, Chief Fire Officer, and Comptroller General of Immigration Service unless for specified misbehavior.

    Scheduled for hearing on May 23, the case was postponed as the state has yet to submit its responses. The state’s legal representative requested seven days to prepare the appropriate responses, which the apex court granted.

    In their filing alongside security analyst Prof Kwesi Aning, the plaintiffs seek a declaration that, based on a proper interpretation of several constitutional articles, the President lacks the power to terminate these officials unless there is proven misconduct or misbehavior.

    The case specifically addresses appointments to offices like the Chief Fire Officer of the Fire Service, Inspector General of Police, Director General of Prisons Service, and Comptroller General of Immigration Service.

    The plaintiffs also argue against fresh appointments by new presidents without just cause, citing instances where officials were removed before reaching retirement age.

    Their plea includes a request to restrain the President from dismissing these officials except in cases of proven misconduct, retirement, resignation, death, or incapacity.

    “In some cases, these removals occur before the individual occupants of the office reach the statutory retirement age.

    “For instance in 2017, the then Director-General of the Prisons Service, Mr. Emmanuel Yao Adzator was asked to proceed on leave at the age of 54 and subsequently another was appointed in his stead,” part of the writ read.

  • Married couple names baby after IGP Dampare

    Married couple names baby after IGP Dampare

    Ghanaian couple Nana Yaw and Yvonne, who recently marked their first anniversary, honored the christening of their newborn by naming the child after Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare.

    Their joyous celebration included a special ceremony attended by the esteemed IGP himself.

    The couple shared heartfelt sentiments, acknowledging IGP Dampare’s unwavering dedication and outstanding leadership as their inspiration for this meaningful decision.

    Social media captured the emotional embrace between IGP Dampare and the family, showcasing the deep respect and gratitude felt by Nana Yaw and Yvonne.

    This symbolic naming ceremony not only reflects the couple’s appreciation for Dr. Dampare but also signifies their aspirations for their child to embody the core values of integrity, diligence, and exemplary leadership demonstrated by the esteemed Inspector General of Police.

    Watch video below:

  • IGP makes an appearance at Kyekyeku’s 1957 movie premiere

    IGP makes an appearance at Kyekyeku’s 1957 movie premiere

    Ghana’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), George Akuffo Dampare, made a notable appearance at the National Theatre for the second premiere of Ghanaian actor Kyekyeku’s debut film, “1957.”

    Arriving in a black Lacoste paired with jeans and accompanied by a group, a TikTok video shared by Yaw Plug captured Dampare’s arrival on April 27, 2024.

    The IGP’s presence at the young actor’s movie premiere garnered praise on social media, with many applauding his support for the emerging talent.

    Netizens expressed admiration, calling him humble and even suggesting he could make a good president for Ghana due to his result-oriented approach.

    Other celebrities such as Nana Ama Mcbrown, Aka Ebenezer, Eddie Nartey, Kwappiah, and Vanessa Nicole (Funny Face’s partner) also attended to show their support for Kyekyeku.

    Directed by 925, “1957” initially premiered on March 6, 2024, in Kumasi and features renowned actors like Aka Ebenezer and Kalsuome Sinare.

    Watch video below:

    @yawplug

    The moment IGP George Akuffo Dampare arrived for the premiere of Kyekyeku’s “1957” movie . #plug24 #ghana #1957movie #kyekyeku #akabenezer #ghanamovies

    ♬ Enter (feat. Kuami Eugene) – Lyrical Joe
  • Gender Ministry must improve efforts to protect children and vulnerable individuals – Sosu

    Gender Ministry must improve efforts to protect children and vulnerable individuals – Sosu

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina and Human Rights lawyer, Francis-Xavier Sosu, has urged the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to strengthen their efforts in safeguarding the vulnerable in society.

    Highlighting a concerning trend revealed in UNICEF’s 2022 population and housing report, which unveiled two instances of child brides among 8.3 million marriages in Ghana, Sosu emphasized the need for decisive action.

    Despite constitutional provisions against all forms of child marriage, Mr Sosu expressed deep concern over the lack of adequate protection for young girls in Ghana, stressing the importance of safeguarding their future.

    In a call to action directed at the Ministry, Sosu underscored the urgency for enhanced efforts in protecting vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, criticizing what he perceives as a lack of substantial progress over the past seven years.

    “This is a very worrying trend and for me, I fear for the future of young girls in Ghana, and the future of Ghana because when you have a population that shows that females or women are more and we don’t have enough protection for our women. Then the country is heading to a doom because the female gender is not protected or supported.

    “At the end of the day, you want to count on the same people to be the future leaders or to actually be the people to anchor the future of our generation or the future of this nation, and I think that is a very worrying trend.” he stated.

    Regarding the controversial case of a 12-year-old girl marrying a 63-year-old Nungua Gborbu Wulomo, Sosu urged the Ministry to intervene decisively.

    He expressed intentions to petition the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and demanded the arrest and prosecution of the priest involved, emphasizing that marriage by law entails a union between two consenting adults.

    Meanwhile, the Police Service has confirmed the rescue of the 12-year-old girl and her mother, assuring they are under police protection.

  • Dual report on military involvement in 2024 elections shows you are a coward – Security policy expert to IGP

    Dual report on military involvement in 2024 elections shows you are a coward – Security policy expert to IGP

    Security policy expert Anthony Acquaye has criticized Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for the police service’s response to comments made by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Gabriel Prince regarding security arrangements for the 2024 general elections.

    Mr Acquaye views the police service’s disassociation from DCOP Gabriel Prince’s comments, stating that the Ghana Armed Forces would not be involved in election security, as a display of cowardice and weakness on the part of the IGP.

    The police service released a statement on February 20, 2024, distancing itself from the senior officer’s remarks made in a television interview on February 19, 2024.

    The comments were deemed unfounded, and the police subsequently initiated internal disciplinary processes against DCOP Gabriel Prince.

    In response, Mr Acquaye expressed that Gabriel’s comments resonated with the aspirations of many Ghanaians, who prefer the military not be involved in electoral activities due to recent electoral violence.

    He pointed to the successful police supervision of by-elections in Kumawu and Assin North without military involvement as evidence of confidence in the IGP’s leadership.

    “Mr IGP, I must tell you in your face that this statement from your outfit has exposed your cowardness, for not being the man you portray yourself to be, your inability to stand firm by the guiding principle and upholding the golden rule of oneness in the service, by sacrificing a fellow senior most officer whose statement gave hope and assurance to Ghanaians on how prepared and capable your institution is, ahead of the forthcoming 2024 general election.

    “Mr IGP, the statement from your outfit is not only unfortunate but also demoralised the spirits of your men and women and exposes the weakness of your leadership,” part of the statement read.

    “Mr IGP, I am by this write-up challenging the Ghana Police Service under your leadership to come out and explain to Ghanaians what is factually wrong with the statement made by DCOP Gabriel Prince Waabu which has warranted him to be subjected to an internal disciplinary process.

    “Mr IGP, I need answers to these questions, Is it not factually correct that the 1992 constitution mandates the police institution as the custodian of the country’s internal security operations in maintaining peace, law and order? Again, which part of the 1992 constitution states that the decision by the police not to involve the military in election security in Ghana is unconstitutional?” he questioned.

    What DCOP Prince said in the interview that warranted the disassociation and discipline by the Ghana Police Service

    “Like how we organized all those elections within last year and whatever happened in 2022, a lesson has been learned out of it. We are not maybe going to involve the military, as it were, because it was not even the police that came up with this issue.

    “So, it’s going to be only the police, prisons, fire and immigration that is going to conduct these elections. They are going to support us; it is our baby, it is the police’s baby, but we will want to co-opt in our sister security to help in one way or the other,” he explained.

    Read Anthony Acquaye’s full statement below:

    OPEN LETTER TO THE IGP OF THE GHANA POLICE SERVICE

    Dear Mr IGP,

    I write about a letter released under your command and control dated 19th February 2024 with reference number and heading; PAD/PRESS/VOL4/1/93 and POLICE STATEMENT ON COMMENT BY DCOP MR GABRIEL PRINCE WAABU ON ELECTION SECURITY respectively, where the Police Service claimed to disassociate itself from a comment made by DCOP Gabriel Prince, during a panel discussion on JoyNews, that the Police Service had learned lessons on ensuring peaceful elections, which means it will exclude the military from this year’s election.

    Mr IGP, I am putting it to you that the statement made by DCOP Gabriel Prince Waabu has been the aspiration of many Ghanaians looking forward to seeing you achieve it, as one of your strategic goals going into the 2024 general election after parading your gallant men and women to successfully supervise two crucial by-elections at Kumawu and Assin North without the direct involvement of the military which made some of us have the confidence in your leadership to fully ensure that the authority given to the Ghana Police Service by the 1992 constitution is strictly exercise without any fear or favour.

    But Mr IGP, I must tell you in your face that this statement from your outfit has exposed your cowardness, for not being the man you portray yourself to be, your inability to stand firm by the guiding principle and upholding the golden rule of oneness in the service, by sacrificing a fellow senior most officer whose statement gave hope and assurance to Ghanaians on how preparedness and capable your institution is, ahead of the forthcoming 2024 general election.

    Mr IGP, the statement from your outfit is not only unfortunate but also demoralises the spirits of your men and women and exposes the weakness of your leadership.

    Mr IGP, I am by this write-up challenging the Ghana Police Service under your leadership to come out and explain to Ghanaians what is factually wrong with the statement made by DCOP Gabriel Prince Waabu which has warranted him to be subjected to an internal disciplinary process.

    Mr IGP, I need answers to these questions; Is it not factually correct that the police institution is mandated by the 1992 constitution as the custodian of the country’s internal security operations in maintaining peace, law and order? Again, which part of the 1992 constitution states that the decision by the police not to involve the military in election security in Ghana is unconstitutional?

    Mr IGP, learning from the 2020 General Election, where eight citizens were killed by soldiers, with one of their justifications linked to how they are trained in handling civilian matters born fundamentally out of the military doctoral framework, I would expect that, if your administration has in its election security strategy to involve soldiers at the front line in the forthcoming 2024 general election, Ghanaians should by now know the explicit role of the military and how you are going to address the command and control friction that emerges between the police and the soldiers during joint security operation, and moreover, how soldiers can be educated on the basic law enforcement practices and policing culture to avoid some of this unfortunate incident that occurred during the 2020 general election.

    Signed

    Anthony Acquaye

    Mr Acquaye criticized the police’s U-turn on the matter, asserting that it contradicts the IGP’s previously respected leadership. He accused the IGP of exposing weakness and demoralizing the police force with the handling of this situation.

    The security expert challenged IGP Dampare to explain to the public what factual inaccuracies in DCOP Prince’s statements warranted internal disciplinary action.

  • Leaked tape to oust IGP: COP Mensah believes he will be vindicated after parliamentary committee probe

    Leaked tape to oust IGP: COP Mensah believes he will be vindicated after parliamentary committee probe

    COP (retired) Alex George Mensah, a key witness in the alleged plot to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has expressed confidence in being vindicated once the parliamentary committee completes its investigation.

    During his recent appearance before the committee, COP (retired) Alex George Mensah suggested that the IGP lacked the necessary capacity to lead the Ghana Police Service.

    A leaked tape, widely circulated on social media and other platforms, reportedly contains conversations among three senior police officers discussing plans and strategies related to the potential removal of the current IGP, in conjunction with the former Northern Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bugri Naabu.

    In an interview with TV3 News before the committee resumed its session on October 10, 2023, COP (retired) Alex George Mensah expressed his hope that the truth would emerge soon.

    “I will be vindicated, I know what happened. Some things on the tape are lies, what I said, I said the truth and I will say it again anywhere, but I’m not ready to discuss it here as I said, because it’s before a committee. And I hope, we will wait until the committee comes out with their report, then everybody will know the truth,” COP retired Alex George Mensah said.

    The Police Service on September 7, took decisive action by interdicting COP retired Alex Mensah, and other two high-ranking officers, Superintendent George Asare, and Superintendent Emmanuel Eric Gyebi.

    In a twist of events, the Ghana Police Service suspended the interdiction of the three senior officers.

    The police, in a statement dated September 7, indicated that the decision to suspend the interdiction of the three police officers was to ensure it does not affect the ongoing probe by Parliament.

    COP Mensah

  • Plot to oust IGP: COP Mensah’s ambitions are personal not aligning with NPP’s agenda – Ahiagbah

    Plot to oust IGP: COP Mensah’s ambitions are personal not aligning with NPP’s agenda – Ahiagbah

    The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party, Richard Ahiagbah, has asserted that the embattled retired Commissioner of Police, George Alex Mensah, is pursuing his personal interests rather than those of the police service in the alleged plot to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

    In an interview with the media on Saturday, Ahiagbah stated, “What is happening is clearly an individual’s ambition to advance his interest. It has nothing to do with the NPP or government.”

    He suggested that the situation revolves around a particular Commissioner of Police (COP) aspiring to become the IGP and using his connection with Bugri Naabu, who has a close relationship with the President, to further his ambitions.

    Ahiagbah also encouraged the committee to remain focused on its specific terms of reference and not delve into matters unrelated to the Police.

    Adding to the discussion, Professor Ransford Gyampo criticized the committee for deviating from the evidence and testimonies provided by witnesses during the investigation into the leaked tape.

    He expressed concerns about the committee’s allocation of time and attention to issues that should not be their primary focus.

    He also emphasized the significance of the President’s appointment of the IGP.

  • U-turn as Police Service rescinds interdiction of COP Mensah, others

    U-turn as Police Service rescinds interdiction of COP Mensah, others

    The Ghana Police Service has suspended its earlier decision to interdict three senior police officers involved in the leaked audio discussing the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

    In a statement dated September 7, 2023, the service explained that it was retracting the interdiction order to avoid any interference with the ongoing parliamentary investigation into the matter.

    The statement, signed by ACP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, the Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police, stated, “In order not to prejudice the ongoing probe, the Police Administration has suspended their interdiction.

    The statement also outlined that the Ghana Police Service would initiate investigations into the roles of the three officers featured in the leaked audio through the avenue of disciplinary proceedings.

    In an earlier statement, the Ghana Police Service had announced the interdiction of these three police officers, explaining that the interdiction was necessary “to make way for disciplinary proceedings into their conduct in line with police service regulations.”

  • COP Mensah’s attempt to tarnish police integrity will fail – Former NDC MP

    COP Mensah’s attempt to tarnish police integrity will fail – Former NDC MP

    The former Member of Parliament for the Buem Constituency, Daniel Kwasi Ashiamah, has criticized Commissioner of Police (COP) Alex Mensah for his involvement in an alleged leaked tape discussing the ousting of the current Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akufo Dampare.

    The tape, which featured COP Mensah and other high-ranking police officers, also included the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Alhaji Bugri Naabu.Ashiamah accused COP Mensah of having ulterior motives aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the police service before his retirement.

    He based his criticism on Mensah’s public allegation that IGP Dampare had political ties to former President John Dramani Mahama and maintained regular communication with him.

    During an interview with the media on September 5, 2023, Ashiamah insisted that COP Mensah should be compelled to provide concrete evidence to support his claims.

    He went further, characterizing COP Mensah as an individual with malevolent intentions toward the police service.

    Ashiamah stated, “They have to force him to bring the conversation between Mahama and Dampare. Those are the things. You see because he is going home, he is destroying everything. He is like a witch. When there is a witch in the family, before he/she dies, then the person has killed all the children in the household. That is what he is trying to do, telling us that because he heard Mahama and Dampare talking, he is thinking Dampare and Mahama are close. He is a devil, but he will not succeed. We must tell him in the face.”

    He added, “If you want to lobby to become an IGP, you must bring the record of your performance so that Ghanaians and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo can assess and give you the IGP position. Don’t go and tell somebody that Dampare is not doing his work so we should take you.”

  • Dampare frequently communicates with Mahama – COP alleges Alex Mensah

    Dampare frequently communicates with Mahama – COP alleges Alex Mensah

    Commissioner of Police (COP) Alex Mensah has alleged that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, frequently communicates with former President John Mahama.

    While speaking before the ad-hoc committee investigating the alleged plot to remove the IGP, COP Alex Mensah claimed that his intelligence sources had indicated this.

    However, he did not disclose the nature of the conversations between the IGP and the former president. When questioned about the credibility of his claim by the committee’s Vice Chair, James Agalga, COP Mensah insisted that his intelligence showed such contact but declined to provide further details, even during an in-camera hearing.

    COP Alex Mensah also reiterated his position that Dr. Dampare is the worst IGP in Ghana’s history, stating that the Police Service is heading in the wrong direction under his leadership.

    Additionally, he admitted to lobbying for the position of IGP since 2017 and affirmed his political alignment with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The ad-hoc committee was established to investigate a leaked audio recording that allegedly revealed a plot to remove the IGP from office. The committee is expected to submit its report by September 10, 2023.

  • Plot to oust IGP: You will go to jail if you tamper with leaked audio – Witnesses told

    Plot to oust IGP: You will go to jail if you tamper with leaked audio – Witnesses told

    The chairman of the committee, Samuel Atta Akyea, tasked with investigating the leaked tape concerning a plot to remove the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo-Dampare, has issued a stern warning that any witness attempting to tamper with the controversial audio will face imprisonment.

    He emphasized that no one, including any attempt to manipulate the tape, will be exempt from potential legal consequences.

    Bugri Naabu, the former Northern Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who recorded the leaked tape, has confirmed its authenticity.

    However, COP George Alex Mensah, one of the officers implicated in the tape, rejected the authenticity of the recording during his appearance before the committee.

    He claimed that the tape had been extensively edited and that he couldn’t confirm all the details presented in it, citing modern technology’s capability for manipulation.

    COP Mensah’s legal team had requested approximately an hour and a half to compare the transcript with the audio provided to them.

    In response, Mr. Atta Akyea cautioned that attempting to manipulate the tape given to him could result in imprisonment, citing the act as “evidence tampering.”

    The committee’s chairman assured that the committee had no intention of disgracing any of the officers implicated in the matter, emphasizing that their primary goal was to uncover the truth.

    The committee’s proceedings were adjourned to allow COP George Alex Mensah to examine the audio alongside the transcription, as per his request.

  • COP Alex Mensah has bad intentions for police service – Prof Aning

    COP Alex Mensah has bad intentions for police service – Prof Aning

    Director of the Faculty of Academic Affairs and Research at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC), Prof Kwesi Aning, has criticized comments made by COP George Alex Mensah, the Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service.

    COP Mensah accused the current Inspector General of Police (IGP) of not effectively managing the police service during his appearance before a parliamentary ad-hoc committee investigating allegations that he was part of a plot to remove the IGP from office.

    Prof Aning expressed concern over COP Mensah’s comments, stating that it is problematic to sow seeds of disaffection against the IGP and make claims about his unpopularity within the service.

    He further criticized COP Mensah for not using internal channels to address his concerns and instead choosing to make political statements.

    Prof Aning suggested that COP Mensah’s comments indicate a lack of goodwill towards the police service and may be motivated by personal antagonism towards the IGP.

    COP Mensah had previously admitted that the voice on the leaked tape was his but claimed the content had been doctored. He denied any involvement in a plot to remove the IGP and stated that he had professional disagreements with the IGP but no personal issues.

    The situation has raised concerns about internal divisions within the police service and the impact of such public disagreements on the institution’s image and effectiveness.

    The industrial action had been initiated by the Bolgatanga Technical University (BTU) Branch of TUTAG and TUSAAG on August 25, 2023. The groups had raised concerns about changes to their retirement benefits, which they alleged were being sought by the university’s vice-chancellor, Professor Samuel Alnaa, against the Ministry of Finance’s approval. They also pointed out ambiguities in the Technical Universities Act (2026), Act 922 as amended.

    The national body of the Technical University Teachers’ Association of Ghana (TUTAG) had expressed support for the strike action taken by the BTU Chapter of TUTAG on August 28, 2023.

  • I have been chasing IGP position since 2017 – COP Alex Mensah

    I have been chasing IGP position since 2017 – COP Alex Mensah

    The Director General of Operations for the Ghana Police Service, COP George Alex Mensah, has openly expressed his longstanding aspiration to become the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

    He revealed that he has been actively engaged in this endeavor since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) took office in 2017.

    Although he hasn’t achieved this goal so far, he remains determined and resolute in his pursuit.

    He also confirmed his affiliation with the NPP during his testimony before a parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee.

    COP Alex Mensah made these statements on Thursday, August 31, while appearing before the committee.

    This committee was established to investigate the contents of a leaked audio recording purportedly discussing a plot to remove the current IGP, George Akuffo Dampare, from his position.

    During his appearance, COP Alex Mensah admitted to submitting his CV to an individual, with the intention that it would be given to Bugri Naabu, who would then advocate for him to be appointed as the IGP.

    “I gave my CV to someone to give to Bugri Naabu for him to lobby for me to be appointed the IGP. We all lobby. I started lobbying since 2017.

    He emphasized that such lobbying is a common practice and shared that he had been involved in this since 2017.

    When asked whether he had faith in Bugri Naabu’s ability to support his lobbying efforts, the COP responded positively. However, he also pointed out that Bugri Naabu’s testimony during the committee proceedings contained falsehoods.

    COP George Alex Mensah’s testimony followed the appointment of a 7-member Ad-Hoc Committee by the Speaker of Parliament, Samuel Atta-Akyea, on July 25.

    “We were all here when Supt. Gyebi denied that he never spoke to Bugri Naabu. Bugri Naabu came here to lie,” he said.

    This committee was tasked with investigating a leaked audio recording that purportedly exposed a conspiracy involving a senior police officer and a prominent NPP member to oust IGP George Akuffo Dampare.

    The audio’s circulation triggered debates in Parliament, with the Minority urging for a forensic audit. Consequently, Speaker Alban Sumana Bagbin proposed the establishment of the Special Committee, which was given a deadline of September 10, 2023, to submit its report.

  • Police Commander who proposed IGP’s ouster ignored my calls after audio leak – Bugri Naabu

    Police Commander who proposed IGP’s ouster ignored my calls after audio leak – Bugri Naabu

    The former Northern Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Daniel Bugri Naabu, has claimed that one of the police officers involved in the recorded conversation discussing the removal of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, has ceased communicating with him since the audio leaked.

    He stated that he phoned the officer with the intention of learning how the audio recording had become widely accessible, but as soon as the officer recognized his identity, he abruptly ended the call and declined to respond to any of his subsequent calls.

    Bugri Naabu shared these details during his appearance before the Ad-Hoc Committee of Parliament on August 28.

    During his testimony, he disclosed that he had recorded his conversation with the officers and had shared the recording with President Akufo-Addo.

    He clarified that he took this step to safeguard the party and present evidence of certain officers’ plans to remove the IGP.

    “I called Mr. Asare and asked him who sent the tape into the public domain, and he banged the phone on me. Then I called him again and he refused to talk to me.”

    He further revealed that he received a threat from Commander Asare through his son, indicating a threat to his life over the leaked audio tape.

    “But rather, he sent a message through my son, that he will deal with me, he threatened me,” Bugri Naabu added.

    The circumstances surrounding the leaked audio have triggered significant attention.

    To get to the bottom of the matter, the Speaker of Parliament appointed Samuel Atta-Akyea, the MP for Abuakwa South, to lead a 7-member ad hoc committee with the responsibility of investigating the leaked audio recording.

  • IGP commended for helping reduce robberies in Mampurusi

    IGP commended for helping reduce robberies in Mampurusi

    The Paramount Chief of Wungu traditional area, Wunaaba Alhaji Saaka Sulemaana, has welcomed a visiting Police entourage, led by Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, to his palace.

    He expressed delight as it was the first time an IGP had visited the area and his palace.

    During the meeting, the chief informed the IGP that robbery incidents had significantly decreased in the past two years, improving the social lives of his people.

    In response, the IGP highlighted the police’s commitment to providing community-specific policing, tailoring security solutions based on each community’s needs.

    He stressed that the Police will continue to collaborate with chiefs and communities to achieve enhanced security outcomes.

    The IGP and the police management board are touring the north-east region to assess the security situation, engaging with police officers and the public to gather first-hand information on welfare, operational, and administrative challenges.

    The tour has covered over 80 percent of the country, with similar engagements conducted by Regional, Divisional, and District Police Commands nationwide.

  • Security policy expert calls for the amendment of Presidential power to appoint IGP

    Security policy expert calls for the amendment of Presidential power to appoint IGP

    Anthony Acquaye, a security policy expert, has urged the bipartisan committee established to look into the audio recording of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, to demand a change in the president’s authority to name the IGP.

    According to an expert statement dated July 14, 2023, a comprehensive and effective inquiry is needed along with strong policy recommendations for reforming the appointment of the IGP.

    The call by the expert is on the back of a 7-member bi-partisan committee established by Parliament to conduct a thorough investigation into the leaked tape allegedly involving a plot to have the IGP removed from office.

    According to him, the bi-partisan committee is in the right order. However, parliamentary regulations may prolong the work of the committee.

    “Constituting seven (7) member special bipartisan committee to investigate into the alleged IGP leaked tape makes both sides of the political domain represented. However, generally, the committee delays or prolong its work, due to the boundaries of internal regulations of parliament. This cripples the extent the committee can go for more revelations into the issue of strict and strong policy recommendations for reforms as compared to the Independent Commission, which explores the external regulations for an immediate, adequate, and compact result. Nevertheless, for the speaker of parliament to concede and direct the establishment of the bipartisan committee beyond the defence and Interior Committee is highly recommended.

    “Again, whoever chairs the committee must not be too hard in his or her leadership style which can lead to authority defence and also too soft, to result in one person dominating the process, the timeline for the committee to submit its report to parliament should not be temper, in any form to avoid prolonged decision on the matter,” parts of the statement read.

    In order to establish the authenticity of the leaked tape, the expert, Anthony Acquaye, advised that the committee must collaborate with forensic intelligence departments from both the Armed Forces and Police Service.

    According to him, this cooperative approach will enhance the credibility of the investigation and strengthen the committee’s findings.

    He added that as part of the committee’s recommendations, it must suggest amendment of the power of the president to appoint the IGP must be amended with the adoption of a new mechanism for doing the appointment.

    “Furthermore, the committee in its quest to establish the authenticity of the tape can collaborate with other forensic intelligence departments from the Armed Forces or Police Service. More so, the committee must also open its doors for more intelligence gathering to help them in their decision-making for strong report outcomes.

    “Inasmuch as the terms of references set are purposeful and achievable, it is also necessary to plead to the committee to indicate in its recommendations, that the power by the president to appoint the Inspector General of Police (IGP) be amended with the adoption of the new mechanism in appointing IGP. This is because, for so many years the perceptions by the public, that before an officer who has gone through the ranks to Commissioner of Police will be appointed as IGP, he or she must be affiliated to a political party has been confirmed by the leaked audio, if its authenticity is proving to be true,” the statement added.

  • 7-member parliamentary committee to probe leaked IGP tape

    7-member parliamentary committee to probe leaked IGP tape

    The Parliament Speaker, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has instructed the establishment of a seven-member committee to investigate the leaked audio recording allegedly involving individuals plotting the removal of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.

    The committee will consist of three members from each side of the House, along with a technical expert.

    The Speaker directed that the names of the three members from both the Majority and Minority caucuses be provided within one week, as of Thursday, July 13.

    This decision comes shortly after Deputy Minority Leader Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah submitted an urgent statement requesting an investigation into the leaked recording. The Speaker requested a written version of the statement in order to make appropriate orders, which was accomplished on Thursday.

    The committee’s mandate, as outlined by the Speaker, includes verifying the authenticity of the leaked audio recording, examining the conspiracy to remove the current IGP, addressing any other matters raised in the recording, and proposing appropriate sanctions for those found responsible.

    Furthermore, the committee is expected to suggest reforms if necessary, and provide additional recommendations and consequential measures as deemed fit.

    The leaked audio recording features voices purportedly belonging to high-ranking officials from the Ghana Police Service and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) discussing Dr. Akuffo Dampare. They express doubts about the IGP’s impartiality, alleging his support for former President John Dramani Mahama and scheming to facilitate the National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) return to power before the 2024 general elections.

    The recording has faced widespread condemnation, with calls for an investigation into its contents. Minister of Interior Ambrose Dery, however, dismissed the recording and reassured the public of Ghana’s peaceful electoral process leading up to and following the 2024 elections.

    “There is no plot to remove anybody,” he told journalists in Accra on Tuesday, July 11.

    “I can assure you that I serve a president who is committed and has respect for human rights. Under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, we will make sure that 2024 is peaceful.

    “One thing to be sure, 2024 will not be a violent election by anybody and no one will want to thwart the will of the people. If you vote us in, you vote us in, if you vote us out, you vote us out.”

  • IGP leaked tape threatens constitutional integrity – Col Aboagye

    IGP leaked tape threatens constitutional integrity – Col Aboagye

    A security analyst, Col. Festus Aboagye (Rtd), has stated that he agrees with those pushing for an investigation into the leaked tape allegedly showing an alleged plot to depose Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare.

    He explained that if people who were previously captured on camera making questionable assertions were invited and questioned, this tape should go through the same process and be scrutinized.

    “I join those calling for the probe in this mysterious take,” he said when speaking to the media on Wednesday, July 12.

    “First of all, there have been earlier instances of audio tapes and the state has invited those involved for questioning so this must be also investigated.

    “More importantly, the allegations on this tape have very serious ramifications for constitutional integrity.

    “Peddling influence to have the IGP removed, that amounts to subversion of the constitution, the constitution is very clear on how the IGP is removed.”

    Parliament has formed a committee to look into the tape.

    This came after MPs debated the subject on the House floor on Wednesday.

    Mr Dan Botwe, Member of Parliament for Okere, for example, disputed claims that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) can assist a political party in winning an election.

    On Wednesday, July 12, during a debate in Parliament on the leaked audio of IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the former General Secretary of the NPP stated that, in principle, he supports any probe into the alleged tape.

    He said “In 2000, I was the General Secretary of the [NPP] and I was at the Police Quarters at 1 AM, we had to deal with the late IGP Peter Nanfuri. In spite of all that we went ahead and won the election. So to create the impression that an IGP can do something extraordinary and wonderful to assist a party to win an election is wrong.

    “If there is a tape and we want it to be investigated, I, in principle, have no problem but to go ahead and give the impression  that a particular IGP’s presence or not will determine the outcome of the election is wrong.”

    This came after Builsa North MP James Agalga declared on the House floor, “These are matters that need to be thoroughly investigated.”

    Haruna Iddrisu, Member of Parliament for Tamale South, also stated, “Mr. Speaker, it is a truism that there is a leaked tape which leaked tape contains matters relating to the conduct of the IGP and effort and attempts at a conspiracy to seek his removal on the basis of those allegations in that tape.”

    “Mr Speaker, the primary duty and responsibility of the president and by extension, the Minister of Interior is the safety and security of its citizens which is vested right in the hands of  IGP, and by extension to preserve our democracy. Mr Speaker, we collectively want to preserve democracy. So this House must take interest in conducting a thorough forensic audit into the leaked tape in order to establish the veracity or otherwise of what is contained in that tape.”

    Speaker Alban Bagbin, in his ruling, said “There is a need for an investigation but going by the Standing Orders I have to give proper direction as to the nature, the type of the investigation. Going by the same Standing Orders 72, the last sentence says the terms of any such proposed statement shall first be submitted to Mr. Speaker.

    “So I will urge the maker of the statement to submit in writing the terms of the proposed statements which he just gave us notice of.  This will guide me to give the direction as to how the investigation or inquiry be conducted by the appropriate committee of the House.”

    Ambrose Dery, Minister of the Interior, has denied rumors that members of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) are plotting to depose the Inspector General of Police.

    “There is no plot to remove anybody,” he told journalists in Accra on Tuesday, July 11.

    He added “I can assure you that I serve a president who is committed and has respect for human rights. Under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo we will make sure that 2024 is peaceful.

    “One thing to be sure, 2024 will not be a violent election by anybody and no one will want to thwart the will of the people. If you vote us in, you vote us in, if you vote us out, you vote us out.”

    Portions of an audio that allegedly captures the plot to remove Dr Dampare said that “Alhaji, my only problem… this current IGP if we do a mistake and take him to the elections, it will not help us.

    “It will not help us at all and I will not mind if the position is not given to me but that man is changed; because he will not help us, he will not help us at all… he won’t help the party at all.

    “I know there are others who are also good for this position, if I don’t get and this man is changed and those people that we think they are our men get I (it is ok)t… Because we need to break this 8.

    “That is important, we need to break the 8… Because I wouldn’t want doctor to become the flagbearer and then we lose the elections… ” one of the senior officers told the senior NPP members who is believed to be a former regional chairman of the party and now a traditional ruler.”

  • 150 body cameras installed on Ghana police uniforms

    150 body cameras installed on Ghana police uniforms


    Ghana Police Service installs 150 body cameras on personnel to enhance professionalism and investigations.

    The Director of Police Public Affairs, ACP Grace Ansah Akrofi, mentioned this during a visit to police stations in Accra led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare.

    The body cameras are currently being used by the Visibility Unit in Accra. ACP Akrofi also highlighted the use of these devices during recent by-elections and the establishment of units for Election, Missing Persons, and Cold Cases by the Police Administration.

    “For the cold case unit, it helps personnel to review cases and look into new evidence and at the elec­tion unit the police service engages with political parties on elections and the missing case unit helps trace missing people especially children,’’ she added.

    According to ACP Ansah, some of the Police Administration’s interventions to improve welfare include the establishment of regional welfare, a police emergency medical fund, and a police virtual medical center.

    ACP Ansah stated that seven new regions had been established to bring policing to the people’s doorsteps.

    Dr Dampare asked staff to maintain the service’s image and contribute to the Ghana Police Service’s transformation goal.

    He praised the personnel for their commitment to duty and promised them of the Police Administration’s ongoing assistance by providing logistics and fostering their well-being.

    DCOP Kwofie indicated in her remarks that crime scene investigations had been centralized to ensure effective operations.

    She stated that the Police Administration was in the process of purchasing additional crime kits.

  • Okada rider killed in robbery shooting at Eastern Region

    Okada rider killed in robbery shooting at Eastern Region

    A 24-year-old okada rider has been killed in a robbery attack near Nsawam in the Eastern Region.

    The victim, Kwame Mensah, had been supporting his family by working in the Nsawam area after completing senior high school.

    The gang hired him for a trip to Kwarfokurom and halfway through the journey, they shot him and stole his motorbike.

    The grieving mother of the deceased called for justice, and the former Member of Parliament for Ayensuano appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to increase police patrols in the area to protect Okada riders and residents from such attacks.

  • Group angry over lack of prosecution of Akonta mining directors in galamsey fight

    Group angry over lack of prosecution of Akonta mining directors in galamsey fight

    The Media Coalition Against Galamsey (MCAG) has expressed frustration over what they perceive to be a lack of progress in the prosecution of the Akonta Mining Limited directors.

    MCAG sent two petitions to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare in January 2023, to carry out swift investigations into the alleged illegal mining activities by Akonta Mining owned by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako.

    MCAG in a statement said its team met with senior officials of the Criminal Investigative Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service (GPS) on Thursday, June 8, 2023, to discuss the progress of the investigation into Akonta Mining Limited’s mining activities in the Tano Nmira Forest Reserves.

    The MCAG in the statement said it was informed that investigations were ongoing, but the group expressed disappointment that the directors of Akonta Mining Limited had not yet been prosecuted, despite the clear evidence of their alleged wrongdoing.

    MCAG thus called on the CID to expedite the prosecution of the directors of the company to ensure that they are brought to justice.

    “It was made known during the meeting that investigations were ongoing into the activities of Akonta Mining Limited. The delegation from the MCAG was appreciative of the work being carried out by the CID. We, however, expressed our frustration at the seeming lack of action in the prosecution of the director(s) of Akonta Mining Ltd, in the face of clear evidence (including what we added to our petition and statement to the Police) of they having breached the Minerals & Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and prayed that the needed urgency be applied for the speedy prosecution of the director(s) of Akonta Mining Ltd since there was ample evidence available for their prosecution,” the group added in a statement.

    The MCAG has also called on all well-meaning Ghanaians to join in the fight against illegal mining.

    “There is and can be no conceivable justification for illegal mining to continue in Ghana,” said the MCAG in a statement.

    “We urge all Ghanaians to join us in the fight to save our water bodies and preserve our environment for current and future generations.”

    Illegal mining is a major environmental and economic problem in Ghana. It has led to the destruction of water bodies, the displacement of people, and the loss of biodiversity.

    The MCAG is a coalition of media organizations that are committed to fighting illegal mining in Ghana.

    MCAG has been at the forefront of the campaign to raise awareness of the problem and to hold those responsible to account.

  • Contesting parties in Kumawu by-election to meet Dampare today

    Contesting parties in Kumawu by-election to meet Dampare today

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has scheduled a meeting with all participating parties in the upcoming by-election in Kumawu, Ashanti region.

    The IGP’s meeting with the parties ahead of the Kumawu by-election is scheduled to happen at the District Police Command on Monday May 22, 2023 in the morning.

    Dr. Dampare had earlier touched base with the Police deployment in the area over the weekend.  He assessed the security preparedness ahead of the Tuesday May 23, 2023 polls.

    He also interacted with the public, walk through the street and assess the general security ahead of the upcoming Kumawu Constituency by-election.

    The by-election follows the death of the MP for the constituency who will be buried on Saturday.

    The leadership of the NDC and new NPP have been in the constituency supporting their various candidates.  

  • Natasha shares evidence with IGP to prosecute Adavi LG Chairman of electoral malpractices

    Natasha shares evidence with IGP to prosecute Adavi LG Chairman of electoral malpractices

    Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba to look into the outcome of the just concluded senatorial election in Kogi Central.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan in the letter dated March 6, 2023, is demanding investigation into allegations of electoral offences including offence of destruction of election materials, obstruction of election, intimidation and harassment of INEC officials and voters on election day.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan in the letter written by her lawyer, Samuel Ogala, said there was disruption at Adavi Local Government Area of the State during Saturday’s poll, with video evidence to back the claim.

    Read full letter below:

    We are Solicitors to Mrs. Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan (hereinafter referred to as “our client”).

    Our client was the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vying for the position of Senate to represent Kogi Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly general election of 25th February 2023.

    Between 12 noon and 2 pm, while voting and collation of results was ongoing on the 25th February 2023, several of our client’s polling agents in Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State reported to our client that the Chairman of Adavi Local Government Area, Kogi State, Hon. Joseph Omuya Salami in the company of his police escorts were going around destroying ballot boxes that were already thumb printed by voters in favour of our client at the various polling units.

    Our client’s agents were able to capture on camera the criminal activities perpetrated by Hon. Salami at the polling unit with Code 034, along Eid Prayer Ground, Nagazi/Farm Centre Ward and Polling Unit 033 Mikab Model School, Nagazi/Farm center ward, Adavi Local Government Area, Kogi State where he was destroying polling materials, ballot papers, intimidating voters and harassing electoral officials with the aid of police officers and thugs.

    He went to other polling units where he tore ballot papers already thumb-printed in favor of our client to reduce her wild margin against the candidate of the APC.

    There is no doubt that the unwholesome activities of Hon. Joseph Omuya Salami, the Chairman of Adavi L.G.A. constitute very grave offences under the Electoral Act, 2022. Hence, it is our client’s instruction to request you to use your good office to investigate the said offences which contravene sections 115(1) (f) & (j), 125 and 126(1) (j) of the Electoral Act, 2022 which are punishable under section 125, 126(3) (4) of the Electoral Act 2022.

    In order to facilitate your investigation, we hereby attach the tape of the tearing of ballot papers by Hon Salami to facilitate your investigation.

    Kindly accept the assurances of our highest esteem as we await your timely intervention in this regard.

  • Policeman in connection with CFA190,000 scandal missing – Dampare

    Policeman in connection with CFA190,000 scandal missing – Dampare

    The police officer at the center of a CFA190,000 controversy, according to Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, cannot be located.

    The issue of the missing monies came to light in a 2020 report by the Auditor-General. The Auditor-General ordered that the monies be recovered.

    The report stated that “the Divisional CID, Tarkwa, disclosed that cash exhibits of US$8,100.00 and CFA 40,000.00 retrieved from suspects in 2016 in the case of The Republic versus Nana Akakpo and three others were not available for our audit verification.”

    The audit report also recommended that “the Divisional CID in charge to immediately produce the exhibit for our inspection, failing which the total sum should be recovered from him and disciplinary action also taken against him.”

    Dr Akuffo Dampare who took his turn at the sittings of the Public Account Committee on Thursday, January 19, 2022 disclosed that the investigations by the police led to the discovery that the initial amount was underdeclared by CFA150,000. In essence the total amount of money was CFA190,000.

    He said the police however managed to retrieve the money and sent it to Ivory Coast for verification of the authenticity of the notes. He said “the checks were done and the results with accompanying appendix indicate that they were all fake.

    “When they were done, they were sent back to the CID office in Tarkwa. But honourable chair, there has been confusion as to who received it and the whereabouts of the money. Unfortunately, one of the three officers who were involved resigned from the Service and we’re making efforts to look for him to be held accountable.”

    He revealed two of the three officers involved have however been interdicted and are subject of investigations by the Police Professional Standard Bureau.

    Dr Dampare also disclosed that the US$8,100.00 which was part of the seized notes and sent to the United States of America for authentication is also missing.

    He said that all efforts to retrieve the money which was sent through the US Embassy in Ghana have proven futile.

  • SIM re-registration has helped in dealing with cybercrime – IGP

    SIM re-registration has helped in dealing with cybercrime – IGP

    The government’s SIM re-registration initiative, according to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo-Dampare, has aided in efforts to combat cybercrime in the nation.

    The IGP said the blocking of the unregistered SIMs has helped in defining the space to identify such fraudsters for their subsequent arrest.

    Speaking at the Public Accounts Committee hearings, the IGP assured of efforts to deal with scammers within the cyberspace.

    “The challenge used to be the case where we had people walking to any service provider and getting a SIM card registered. With the registration of the numbers and the blocking of all the numbers which are unregistered, there is a difficulty for these people [scammers] to continue with their operations. So the registration has helped us in defining the space to get these people arrested.”

    The government said the re-registration of SIM cards is to aid in the monitoring and tracking of persons who use mobile phones for criminal activities. 

    The move is also to check the increasing rate of cybercrime activities in the country. 

  • IGP should be ashamed of himself – Bridget Otoo fumes

    IGP should be ashamed of himself – Bridget Otoo fumes

    Ace broadcaster, Bridget Otoo, has descended on the Inspector General of Police, George Akuffo Dampare after the Ghana Police Service released a statement into an audio recording which captures some officers allegedly planting substances suspected to be narcotics in the vehicle of a member of the public.

    In a Tweet she shared on January 18, 2023, Bridget asked Ghanaians not to take the word of the Ghana Police over the victim reportedly captured in the audio complaining about being set up.

    According to her, the police are fond of planting cocaine and weed in people’s cars.

    “Your men are going round planting cocaine and weed in Peoples’s cars, and instead of dealing with it, you care about the word ‘some’!!

    “Don’t take the word of @GhPoliceService over the victim. IGP should be ashamed of himself. You know the victim, your men have spoken to the victim,” she shared.

    Meanwhile, the Ghana Police said in a statement that they had contacted the Narcotics Control Commission and the Ghana Armed Forces as part of their investigations, but both organizations have denied knowing about the occurrence.

    A press statement issued on January 17, 2023, said initial checks at the stations mentioned in the audio, East Legon and Accra Central Police Stations, had revealed that no such complaint had been made.

    ADA/SARA

  • IGP relocates police from Apromase barracks after officer’s death in fire outbreak

    IGP relocates police from Apromase barracks after officer’s death in fire outbreak

    Inspector General of Police(IGP), Dr George Akufo Dampare has ordered the immediate transfer of police officers and families residing in a housing facility at Apromase to another area.

    The move by the IGP is necessitated by a fire that swept away a 35-year-old Sergeant Owusu Asante Baafi with the Anti-Robbery Unit, his wife, and a three-month old child on January 16, 2023.


    The fire, which began around 11:30p.m., allegedly razed down the entire five-bedroom self-contained flat in which the deceased family was living.

    The Ghana National Fire Service and the police have launched a collaborative probe into the incident. According to the Ghana National Fire Service, late detection and a call for help led to the destruction of five out of the 15 apartments housing some police officers and their families.

    In his address to the victims, the IGP stated that the facility would be confined to a complete, accurate structural and technical evaluation as part of the inquiry.

    Following the incident, other police officers and their families living in the affected housing facility have been traumatized and forced to relocate.

    However, the IGP was joined by some senior officers from the police administration to express condolences to the victims and assured that psychosocial support
    and clinical psychologists will be given to the victims.

    The IGP “We are in this together, we feel your pain, and that’s the reason why I had to travel all the way from Accra to see you in person.

    “Let me assure you that, there will be a joint investigation between the police and GNFS to bring finality to this matter and see how best we can assist you.
    “Just as you are shattered about this incident, we are shocked too, and the best way to express our feelings is to come and console you,” he said.

  • Road crashes, deaths reduce: But NRSA wants further improvement

    Road accidents, fatalities, and injuries have decreased steadily over the past 11 months for the first time in decades. With only one month left in the year, statistics from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) show that from January and November of this year, the number of fatalities from traffic accidents decreased by 18.2%, from 2,654 in 2021 to 2,171.

    Within the same period, road crashes reduced by 7.2 per cent — from 14,734 in 2021 to 13,675 this year.

    Additionally, there is a marginal improvement in the number of people who sustained injuries in road crashes as 14,239 were injured this year compared with 14,393 in 2021.

    Pedestrian knockdowns also reduced by 9.6 per cent from 2,693 in 2021 to 2,435 this year.

     

    Vehicles involved

    In terms of vehicles, the statistics showed that 23,529 cars were involved in road crashes as against 25,130 within the same period last year, representing a 6.4 per cent reduction in the number of vehicles involved in the crashes.

    A breakdown of the figures indicated that 7,925 commercial vehicles were involved in road crashes this year compared with 8,791 last year, representing a decline of 9.9 per cent.

    Similarly, 10,628 private cars were involved in crashes this year as against 10,748 within the same period last year, indicating a marginal reduction of 1.1 per cent.

    The statistics further revealed that motorcycles witnessed the biggest reduction in road crashes of 11 per cent from 5,591 in 2021 to 4,976 this year.

    Analysis

    The figures further revealed that 298 persons were killed in the road crashes this year.

    The statistics also showed a relatively high road traffic death ratio (6:1) for adults as compared to children within the period.

    The Director-General of the NRSA, David Osafo Adonteng, told the Daily Graphic that the development could be attributed to the high risk of exposure of adults to traffic incidences as compared to children.

    In terms of the sex distribution of road traffic fatalities, the statistics indicated that 1,708 were males, representing 79 per cent of total deaths, as compared with 463 females over the period.

    Action

    Although there is improvement in road crashes, deaths and injuries, Mr Adonteng said the progress was not enough to achieve the target of halving road crashes and related deaths by 2030.

    He said it was in that regard that the NRSA had ramped up efforts to stem the tide.

    Mr Adonteng said the authority had started engagement with key stakeholders in the road safety ecosystem to help to reduce the crashes and deaths on the road.

    For instance, he said, for the past two weeks, the NRSA had held discussions with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) on how to strengthen the enforcement of road traffic regulations to address carnage on the road.

    “We had very fruitful discussions with the IGP and explored ways by which we can work together to make our roads safe and I am sure that we will begin to see results,” he said.

    He also said the NRSA had started visiting transport operators to solicit their support for road safety education.

    “We have visited transport operators such as OA, PM Express and Royal VVIP to ask for their support. From tomorrow, we will continue to VIP, Intercity STC Coaches Limited, Metro Mass Transit and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union. We want all of them to play their roles well so that we can jointly deal with road crashes,” he said.

  • Activists petition AG, IGP over lack of prosecution of foreigners engaged in galamsey

    The Attorney General and Minister for Justice and the Inspector General of Police have been petitioned by environmental activists to detail the number of foreign nationals arrested for engaging in illegal mining in Ghana and their nationalities.

    In the petition by the Ghana Environmental Advocacy Group and A Rocha Ghana, concern was expressed over reports by The Fourth Estate that only two out of hundreds of Chinese nationals arrested for engaging in illegal mining from 2012 to date remain in Ghanaian jails.

    “To read that those arrested end up quietly deported to their home countries with their loot without any further consequences while the state and local communities are left to reel under the weight of the environmental degradation they leave behind is both unconscionable and irresponsible,” the petition stated.

    These concerns come after the re-arrest of Aisha Huang despite her deportation in 2019 for engaging in legal mining in Ghana.

    Reports indicate that Aisha came to Ghana from a neighbouring country through a land border.

    Upon her arrival, she also acquired a Ghana card in February 2022 with a new name, Huang En.

    Find below the full demands in the petition:

    a. Share with Ghanaians the number of foreign nationals arrested for engaging in
    illegal mining in Ghana and their nationalities.
    b. Number of those arrested that are currently in jail
    c. Number of those who have been released and for what reason (s)
    d. Number of those deported and under what conditions
    e. Number of such deportees who have returned and
    f. Measures that have been put in place to ensure that new people coming do not
    engage in illegal mining in Ghana.

  • Dampare to speak at KNUST lecture today

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare will today, Thursday, August 11, 2022, deliver at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi.

    The IGP will be speaking on the theme “the changing face of policing in Ghana: expectations and the role of the university community”.

    Dr. Dampare is expected to take his audience through the past, present and future of the Ghana Police Service.

    He will also speak on the various initiatives taken by his predecessors in improving security in the country.

    The IGP will share his vision for the Police Service and his expectation of the public with the audience.

    The lecture, which is the first of its kind by an IGP, is at the invitation of the university.

    It is scheduled to take place at 4pm

  • Dampare reportedly lifts interdiction on the personal bodyguard of Madina MP

    The Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has with immediate effect lifted the interdiction placed on the Personal Bodyguard of the Madina MP, Inspector Daniel Agbavor.

    It will be recalled that the Police release on 31st October 2021 said that the bodyguard allegedly drove into a crowd recklessly after a protest “endangering the lives of two senior officers and other civilians”.

    This was following road demonstrations in Madina and the subsequent attempt by the Police to arrest the MP for Madina Constituency, Francis-Xavier Sosu .

    News of lifting of the interdiction was commuted to the Member of Parliament and the Officer through the Parliament Protection Unit (PPU).

    Source: angelonline.com.gh

  • Nigerias Inspector General of Police dissolves SARS

    The Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, has announced a dissolution of a subunit of the force, the Special Anti-robbery Squad (SARS).

    Adamu made the announcement on Sunday, days after a public outcry and series of protests calling for a scrapping of the unit over allegations of brutality and human rights violations.

    “The Special Anti-Robbery Squad of the Nigerian Police, otherwise known as SARS, is hereby dissolved across all formations, the 36 state police command and the Federal Capital Territory where they currently exist,” the IGP said.

    Also, in a statement, the Force Public Relations Office, Force Headquarters, Dcp Frank Mba, noted that “the dissolution of SARS is in response to the yearnings of the Nigerian people”.

    He explained that “the Force is not oblivious of the ever-present need to combat armed robbery, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the country which was before now the core mandate of the erstwhile Squad”.

    Mba, therefore, assured that that a new policing arrangement to address anticipated policing gaps which the dissolution of SARS would cause, has been evolved and shall be announced in due course.

    Source: gossib24.com