Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), John Kudalor, has delivered his end-of-year message on Accra FM’s 'Kaseebo Ara Eda Mu Fua' Thursday December 31, 2015.

Mr Kudalor touched on immediate security arrangements, including the Ghana Police Service’s preparation for the 31st December watchnight services and New Year’s Day celebrations, as well as the service’s readiness for the year ahead, especially the 2016 elections.

31st December Watchnight services

The IGP said the police service would step up its presence in the street with reinforcements from its office staff for the 31st night vigils at various churches. He said police officers will be sent to secure church buildings and worshippers, adding that an extra layer of security will be provided for places of worship he described as “vulnerable”.

He said there will also be policemen on sentry duty around residences to ensure no break-ins arise while they are away at church, despite advising that households should endeavour leaving one member or two of the family behind to keep watch as they leave home for church.

Police-civilian relationship

Mr Kudalor commended Ghanaians for their cooperation with the service saying the police service was able to perform its duties efficiently in 2015 thanks to vital information from members of the public. He said the vigilance of many civilians led to swift police intervention in security situations, while others helped with tip-offs leading to the arrest of some criminals.

He further stated that the community policing initiative has been a bridge between the police and civilians, consolidating the already good relationship and ensuring confidence and trust.

The police service, Mr Kudalor asserts, has extended its presence in communities through the involvement of chiefs and the holding of symposia for the youth on how to combat crime and improve security where they live.

Election 2016

The acting IGP said he was working with his men to avert security breaches in 2016. He also touched on election 2016; promising that the police service will, once again, deliver its mandate, by ensuring the safety of all law-abiding citizens. He said people, who are intent on causing trouble during the electioneering would not be spared, as the police will prosecute culprits with no regard to their political affiliation.

2016 resolution

Mr Kudalor has planned a massive motivation package for police officers for the year ahead. He said he would provide incentives to boost police performance, citing the recent reward package given to police officers in Kumasi for uncovering a large haul of arms and ammunition at Alabar, in addition to the impoundment of several rounds of ammunition. He also mentioned the recent arrest of ‘King Kong’, a notorious armed robber, at Goaso as further example of the increased motivation of the police.

He said the police service will continue with its open-door policy with the public and render even better service in the year to come.