Security Agencies On High Alert

The security agencies say they are on high alert to offer maximum security during the Ghana@50 celebration.

‘We are adequately prepared and will not compromise on security," Patrick Acheampong, the Inspector General of Police, told a news conference in Accra yesterday on the state of preparedness of the security agencies for the celebration. Heads of other security agencies including the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and Customs Excise and Preventive Service (CEPS) attended the conference.

Apart from providing adequate security for the independence day parades on March 6, security will be provided at hotels, restaurants and other public places to ensure that crime was kept under control.

"All the security agencies including the military, CEPS, GIS, intelligence units and the regional coordinating councils are collaborating for a crime free celebration," he said, stressing that "We will not allow those who do not want to join in the celebration to disrupt it."

In addition, he said an integrated communication network has been created to ensure an effective communication and sharing of intelligence information among the security agencies.

He appealed to the public to exercise patience, especially with the traffic inconveniences the convoys of dignitaries would create, and urged the public to also volunteer information about suspicious looking characters.

Ms Elizabeth Adjei, Director of GIS, for her part, also gave the assurance that the service was up to the task and would not compromise on security at the ports considering the high influx of visitors expected.

She said that about 800 personnel have been posted to the various borders and ports to enhance the processing of travellers.

Emmanuel Doku, Commissioner of CEPS, said "We are alert to intercept any illegal material from entering the country."

He said the service has taken measures to facilitate the speedy clearance of goods meant for the celebrations.