The Accra Regional Police Command has tasked personnel performing office duties at their various police stations to move to the roads to direct traffic ahead of the Christmas festivities.
Some of the personnel have also been deployed to the Patrol Unit of the Ghana Police Service to enhance patrol.
The move is part of efforts by the regional command to ease traffic in the city and protect lives and properties ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities.
The Accra Regional Police Commander, ACP Timothy Yoosa Bonga, in an interview with DAILY GUIDE, said the Command took the decision to help the Motor traffic and Transport Unit (MTTU) to decongest the city ahead of Christmas.
During this period, there is human and vehicular congestion in the Central Business District and crime rate also goes high and so there is the need to put measures in place to protect lives and property, he said.
“We have beefed up the Patrol Unit with men to patrol the whole of Accra during the day and at night to make sure that all are safe.
Apart from that, plain-clothed personnel have also been deployed to crime prone areas to protect citizenry there.”
ACP Bonga said on the eve of Christmas, more men would be deployed to tackle crime.
He noted that police personnel have been asked to move to residential areas to arrest criminals during the festive season.
The police chief said personnel would also be deployed to the various beaches and other recreational centers to provide security for the revelers.
“We cannot do all if individuals do not help us by protecting themselves and properties first, and we would appeal to all to help the police protect you by first of all ensuring their security. Make sure that your doors are safely secured before you go out during Christmas and endeavor to report any unsuspecting criminals to the police.
“If you are not sure of your safety just seek assistance of police personnel through your district and divisional commanders within your locality, he added.
ACP Bonga appealed to traders selling on the pavements to desist from the practice.
The regional commander added that personnel have been given motorbikes to embark on patrol in all areas, adding that individuals in distress can immediately call the toll free police number 18555 for assistance.
By Linda Tenyah-Ayettey