Help eliminate illicit drug traffickers

Tema, Sept. 03, GNA - Mr David Quaye Annang, Tema Municipal Chief Executive has asked personnel of the Ghana Navy to help eliminate illicit drug traffickers in the country.

He pointed out that the danger and threat that acts of illicit drug traffickers posed to the nation's stability was enormous. Mr Annang made the call when reviewing the passing-out parade for 102 recruits of the Ghana Navy after they had undergone 31 weeks military training at the Basic and Leadership Training School of the Eastern Naval Command at Tema.

He reminded the personnel of their oath of allegiance and the responsibility to clamp down on activities of drug traffickers that sought to undermine their enviable image as protectors of the country's territorial waters.

Mr Annang reminded the recruits that the duty of security personnel was a call to sacrifice and dedication geared towards the stability and development of the nation.

=93The institution that you have joined is one that does not tolerate or entertain mischievous people. You must know that any acts of individual or group indiscipline will reflect negatively on the service,=94 he added.

The MCE therefore, urged them to acquaint themselves with the rules and regulation of the service and strictly abide by them. Mr Annang noted that the Ghana Navy, like any other state institution, had to compete for the nation's scarce resources to enhance its outlook and effectiveness, and gave the assurance that government and the Military High Command would endeavour to improve the welfare of personnel.

The MCE cautioned the recruits to guard against behaviour that tended to tarnish the good image of the Command, such as unsolicited police duties; land guard activities; eviction of tenants; collection of private debts; arbitration of family feuds and meddling in chieftaincy disputes.

=93I urge you to display utmost discipline, honesty and patriotism in the discharge of your duties. Be worthy ambassadors and hold high the honour of the Ghana Navy wherever you find yourself,=94 he advised the recruits.

He reminded the recruits that the training they had undergone was just the foundation upon which their future career depended, therefore, they should avail themselves of other training opportunities to be of value to the nation after leaving the service.

The best all round recruit award went to Recruit Shaibu Ukkashat, Recruit Albert Amankwah, won the best award in weapon handling, Recruit Vida Addae, the best in academics and Regina Ahlijah the best in drill.