General News of Tuesday, 28 June 2005

Source: GNA

IGP warns police against settling criminal cases privately

Tema, June 28, GNA - Mr Patrick Kwarteng Acheampong, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), on Tuesday called for the creation of a fund to support internal security. He said the government, with its numerous commitments, cannot shoulder the numerous responsibilities alone and stressed the need for society to assist the police in providing police stations and accommodation for personnel.

The IGP was interacting with newsmen after meeting the officers and men of the Tema Region during his maiden visit to the region. He said it was necessary for estate developers to include in their plans police stations that would see to the security of the people. Mr Acheampong said the Police Council is considering passing portions of the Police Service requirements into laws. Earlier at the meeting with the personnel, Mr Acheampong warned them against conniving with suspects or complainants to settle criminal cases privately.

"A criminal offence is an offence against the state that can only be discontinued by the Attorney General's office." The IGP commended the hard working personnel and asked those whose activities tend to tarnish and bring the name of the service in disrepute to cease forthwith.

Mr Acheampong said most of police vehicles are under repairs and are expected back soon. The Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Daniel Laryea Odai mentioned permanent office accommodation, inadequate residential accommodation and vehicles for personnel among others as problems facing the region.