Police Assured of Logistics

The government has restated its intention to improve the conditions of service of the police in the country.

The Minister of Interior, Alhaji Malik Alhassan, at a Regional Commanders' conference in Accra on Friday, said the government is committed to solving the problems of vehicles and logistics.

He lauded the efforts of the police to combat crime especially armed robbery with the low logistics they have at it disposal; also, for their sense of professionalism in handling demonstrations, "unlike the past where demonstrations were marred with brutality".

He suggested that the armed robberies were a calculated attempt to put the city to test, and the police forces have proven that they are capable.

He urged them not to become complacent, but concentrate on the daunting task ahead.

The minister said some police personnel are however tarnishing the image of the force by extorting money from drivers, drunkenness and taking sides in favour of the wealthy. He asked them to desist from such nefarious practices.

The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ernest Owusu-Poku, said when he assumed office, "The situation appeared to be one of hopelessness as it was coupled with acute logistic constraints such as inadequate vehicle communication equipment as well as deteriorating accommodation faculties."

Then came the Accra Sport Stadium tragedy, which made the police an object of ridicule. He said through the efforts of the police and the general public both the armed robberies and serial murder have come under some control. Though there are occasional armed robbery cases, the police will do everything this year to make all Ghanaians feel secure.