Ashaiman,(GA/R) Jan. 25, GNA - Heads of the various ethnic groups at Ashaiman on Tuesday pledged to expose criminals living within the communities for prosecution to rid the town of unwanted people to ensure free movement of residents.

Residents have been griped with fear and panic by the activities of the criminals and the heads suggested that armed robbers and wee smokers arrested in the area be given instant justice and never to return to the community to create problems again.

Giving the assurance at a meeting held at Ashaiman by the Tema Regional Police Command to find out strategies to bring sanity to the area the tribal heads noted that nefarious activities of the criminals have drawn the name of Ashaiman into the mud while residents go about their duties in fear.

"To avoid further tarnishing of the image of Ashaiman and to regain its past glory we will help the police to flush out all thieves, wee smokers and others from the system", the heads promised at the meeting which was chaired by the acting Tema Regional Police Commander, ACP Daniel Laryea Odai who was flanked by some of his officers.

One chief said, "I have to take all my clothing and belongings for safe keeping at a different place because I do not know when the criminals would attack".

They however, said while they were prepared to assist the police in that direction they prayed that their identity would not be disclosed, so that they are not attacked.

Mr. Odai had entreated the heads to assist the police in arresting the criminals by mustering courage to expose the criminals since they lived with them and know their harmful activities.

You know that the criminals have weapons of all kinds used for their nefarious activities so it is only you who have to inform the police to track down on them.

He said some non-governmental organisations and individuals have expressed the interest to invest in the area but fear for their lives and properties, adding that investment thrives in a peaceful atmosphere and this could be achieved by the assistance of the heads.

ACP Odai cited the rowdy behaviour by some youth of the town who had gone to quench fire during a recent fire outbreak in the town. Ashaiman, which is occupied by people of all ethnic groups in the country, had been beset with insanitary environment, criminals activities and recently the dreadful HIV/AIDS.