Kumasi, June 03, GNA - Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Patrick Timbillah, Ashanti Regional Police Commander has called on the media to partner the police in fighting crime in the region. He explained that since the media was knowledgeable in issues concerning the society especially at the grassroots, they would be more reliable to relay information to the police to enable them curb criminal activities.

The new regional commander made the appeal in Kumasi on Wednesday at a press briefing to outline his vision for the region during his tenure.

DCOP Timbillah said his outfit would intensify police operations among which is the "operation Calm Life" a joint military-police intervention to manage crime.

He said periodic police swoops would be carried out as and when it became necessary and called on the public to bear with the police during those times, though their operations might bring inconveniences. Mr Timbilla was however discontent with the lack of public co-operation with the police to stem crime, a situation he attributed to mass illiteracy.

He called on the media to help educate the public on issues such as preserving crime scenes for the police and informing the police about criminal activities. DCOP Timbilla advised the media to focus more on issues that would enhance development rather than reporting on politics alone. Present at the press briefing were district police commanders and heads of departments. 03 June 09