The Minister of the Interior has announced the establishment of a Secretariat for the 24-Hour Economy Policing System, aimed at enhancing national security and supporting Ghana's growing economic activities.
Speaking at the Ghana Police Service Regional Commanders' Meeting on Friday, March 21, 2025, the Minister emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring peace and security across the country.
The new Secretariat will implement a round-the-clock policing model to address the security demands of a modern, thriving economy.
"Whether in our bustling cities or rural areas, economic activities do not cease, and neither can our vigilance," the Minister stated. The initiative is expected to boost security for businesses, workers, and citizens while serving as a critical tool in combating crime.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted the re-activation of the Police Public Relations Officers (P.R.O.s) Program, which includes a three-day orientation for all Regional and Unit P.R.O.s.
This initiative seeks to strengthen communication between the police and the public, fostering trust and enhancing community policing.
On tackling violent crimes, the Minister reaffirmed the administration's resolve to eradicate threats to public safety.
The Minister assured the international and business communities of Ghana's commitment to providing a safe environment for investment and growth.
"Our collaboration with the international community will be strengthened to ensure Ghana remains a secure and attractive destination for business," he noted.
The Minister urged the Regional Commanders to remain dedicated to safeguarding the nation, stressing that peace and security are essential foundations for Ghana's progress.
On his part, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno issued a strong directive to all regional commanders to take decisive action against illegal mining-related crimes and restore law and order in conflict-prone areas, including Bawku.
Speaking at a high-level security briefing in Accra, IGP Yohuno expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity in forest reserves and mining communities, particularly in the Western North Region and other parts of the country.
He revealed that armed criminals have been carrying out brutal attacks on innocent civilians and forestry officers without justification, creating a climate of fear and instability.
“We are persecuting the farmers in our forest reserves and mining communities. In regions like the Western North and many others, armed criminals are carrying out brutal attacks on innocent people, including foresters, without justification. This lawlessness must not be allowed to continue,” IGP Yohuno stated firmly.
He declared a nationwide crackdown on crimes related to illegal mining, urging all regional commanders to take immediate and decisive action to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators.
“We are declaring war on crimes related to illegal mining, and I expect every regional commander to take decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he charged.
IGP Yohuno also addressed the ongoing conflict in Bawku, describing it as a significant national security concern.
He emphasized that restoring peace and stability in the area remains a top priority for the Police Service.
“The Bawku conflict has profound national security implications. After enforcing measures to curb illegal mining-related crimes, we must restore lawfulness in the area,” he stressed, adding that the police will leverage their extensive experience in conflict resolution to achieve sustainable peace.
The IGP’s remarks signal a renewed commitment by the Ghana Police Service to tackle illegal mining and armed violence while working to resolve long-standing conflicts that threaten national stability.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith