Accra: Government will soon undertake a massive retooling of the Ghana Police Service to provide the tools and logistics needed to fulfill its mandate. President John Dramani Mahama made the disclosure on Tuesday when he inaugurated a 10-member Police Council under the chairpersonship of President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang. He urged the members to serve with distinction.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President commended the police management team for their recent successes in combating armed robbery and collaborating with Nigerian counterparts to apprehend kidnappers, ensuring the safe return of Ghanaian victims. He also lauded the police for apprehending the killers of mobile money merchants in Kumasi, Koforidua, and Aflao, as well as the suspects in the Nsawam Sandpit killing.
The President emphasized the need for continued efforts using top-grade police intelligence to solve high-level murders and track down gunmen in conflict areas. He announced a nationwide initiative to install street lights in major urban centers to aid in crime prevention at night.
President Mahama highlighted the importance of addressing police officers’ welfare, stating that officers cannot perform optimally if they are demotivated or underpaid. He urged the Police Council to lead discussions on improving conditions of service, including logistics, accommodation, pensions, and psychological support.
The welfare of officers, the President stated, should be central to every policy the Police Council reviews or implements. He emphasized that morale involves fairness, recognition, and institutional respect, ensuring a clear and merit-based path for advancement.
The President assured the Council of his full support, emphasizing the significance of strong institutions for Ghana’s future. He urged the Council to demonstrate that fairness and justice remain integral to Ghana’s values and pledged his support to uphold justice and restore order.
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, speaking on behalf of the Police Council, expressed gratitude for the President’s confidence and pledged to lead with transparency, inclusivity, and respect for the rule of law.