The Minister for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, has directed the Ghana Police Service to provide details on officers providing private security guard duties for individuals.
Speaking at a conference of Regional Police Commanders in Accra on Friday, the minister questioned the growing trend of police personnel being assigned to private individuals, sometimes even escorting them through the city.
“You go around our country and see so many of your men and women protecting private individuals, whether at their homes or escorting them in traffic. How much scrutiny have you done on these individuals? Is it because they are a pastor, an imam or a businessman?” he asked.
He emphasised the need to streamline this practice to ensure that police resources are being used effectively.
The minister revealed that he has already written to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), requesting a comprehensive list of all private individuals receiving police protection.
Concerns Over Police Use for Private Security
The minister raised concerns about armed officers being stationed at private residences with AK-47 assault rifles, without proper vetting of those they protect.
“How do we justify assigning armed officers to private homes without assessing the security risk? We must protect those who need protection and ensure it is done right,” he stated.
He also questioned the management of armoured vehicles used by security escorts and called for stricter oversight, particularly in ensuring that such vehicles do not end up contributing to crime.
Crackdown on Foreigners in Illegal Activities
Addressing another critical issue, the minister vowed to repatriate foreigners found engaging in illegal activities, particularly in forests and mining areas.
“Since I became Interior Minister, we have deported over 107 foreigners involved in fraudulent and illegal activities. Any foreigner found engaging in such crimes will be repatriated immediately,” he declared.
He instructed regional police commanders to work closely with immigration officials to ensure swift action against foreign nationals involved in crime.
Stricter Gun Ownership Regulations
The minister also proposed reforms in gun licensing, advocating for mandatory firearms training before issuing licenses.
“We issue licenses after a background check, but have we trained them on how to handle or store firearms safely? This is why we have cases of accidental shootings in homes,” he noted.
The Minister also inquired why the spot fine system has not been operationalised.
He urged the officers to prioritise the welfare of personnel working under them, particularly in terms of healthcare, accommodation and conditions of service.
“A motivated workforce is essential for achieving our security objectives. Once the Police Council is established, all pending promotions and welfare matters will be referred for consideration,” he promised.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and security, emphasising that new policies will enhance public trust in the police service.
“No Ghanaian should live in fear. We will implement policies that create a safer environment for businesses and investors while strengthening collaboration with the international community,” he assured.
IGP Calls for Policing Reforms
Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno also addressed the conference, underscoring the need for swift policing reforms to restore public confidence in law enforcement.
He highlighted emerging threats, including Illegal mining and attacks on forest guards, violence in Bawku and its national security implications and robberies targeting mobile money vendors.
“Criminals are always seeking new ways to operate. We must stay ahead of them with innovative crime-fighting strategies,” the IGP said.
He also warned against corruption and abuse of power within the police service, urging regional commanders to prioritise the welfare of officers to improve performance.
The conference concluded with a call for regional commanders to take decisive action against crime and uphold ethical policing standards.
