Ho, May 23, GNA - The Volta Regional Police Commander has ordered the closure of the International University of Theology and Professional Studies (IUTPS) which started operating a week ago in Ho.

Mr Emmanuel Boosman Ansong, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP), told the Ghana News Agency in an interview that the closure of the university had become necessary because of the environment under which it was operating.

He said it lacked an academic environment and ''its present state does not befit the status of a university.''

Mr Ansong said it was improper for an institution like IUTPS to be operating without legitimate registration and accreditation. Apostle Dr Gilbert Okechy, President and Chancellor of the University, said the school has been closed down temporarily to enable the authorities to contact officials of the Ministry of Education for approval and accreditation.

The University had its first matriculation a week ago in Ho with 14 students to start a two-year diploma in Theology and Missions.