Accra, Dec. 05, – President John Dramani Mahama, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening national security, has handed over 40 advanced armoured vehicles to the Ghana Police Service.
The vehicles were presented to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and include 15 armoured pickups, five Cobra-Four vehicles, and 20 Cobra-Three special armoured vehicles.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama said the delivery of the first batch of 40 armoured vehicles formed part of ongoing efforts to retool the security services and enhance their operational readiness as the government advances its 24-hour economy initiative.
He announced that two tow trucks would be added later this month to support police operations. In addition, the Service is expected to receive 10 covert operational vehicles, while every police district will be supplied with a standard pickup vehicle to strengthen patrol duties.
The President emphasised that the Police Service must be adequately equipped to deliver on its mandate.
“The Ghana Police Service stands at the frontline of our collective safety. They are the first responders to emergencies, the guardians of our community, and the shield that stands between law-abiding citizens and those who seek to disrupt our peace,” he said.
He stressed that officers could not be expected to fulfil this “sacred obligation” without the tools required to operate safely and efficiently.
“Too often we have lost men in the line of duty because we send them on missions without providing them with the appropriate equipment to ensure their safety. From the start of my administration, I committed to retooling and modernising all state security agencies.”
President Mahama described the handover as a significant milestone in fulfilling that pledge.
He said government’s security policy was built on the principle that “peace is not accidental” but rather the product of investment, institutional strengthening, professionalism, and vigilance.
As Ghana pursues expanded trade, investment, innovation, and the 24-hour economy, he said strong security systems remained indispensable.
The President explained that the newly procured armoured vehicles were designed as operational assets, not symbols. They would strengthen police response in high-risk environments, improve officer protection during dangerous missions and enhance patrols in rugged terrain and high-crime areas.
“They improve convoy, crowd control, and rapid response capabilities. And they give officers the operational advantage you deserve when confronting violent criminals.”
He added that the state would not yield any community, street, or public space to criminal elements.
“To those who insist on disturbing the peace of our nation—through armed robbery, organised crime, illegal arms trafficking, or gang activity—our message is simple: the Ghanaian state is ready. The Ghana Police Service is ready.”
President Mahama reiterated that national security depended on justice, accountability, and professionalism. Alongside strengthening police capacity, the government was also deepening reforms to promote transparency, discipline, and respect for human rights.
He urged police drivers and officers to handle the vehicles with care, stressing their high cost and importance.
Responding on behalf of the Police Service, IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno expressed appreciation for the logistical support.
“Over the years, the Police Service has seen a steady rise in the risks our officers face daily. This calls for critical logistics that will enable us to rise above these threats and take on criminal elements head-on while ensuring the safety of our officers,” he said.
No comments:
Post a Comment