Koforidua, May 14, GNA - Alhaji Hamidu Mahamah, the Deputy Eastern Regional Police Commander, has commended the Ghana Police Service and the media on their roles in ensuring successful general elections last year.

He described as "overwhelming" the support and co-operation of the media during the sensitisation programme for political parties, security agencies and the media in the Eastern Region.

Alhaji Hamidu, who gave the commendation at the annual get-together of the police dubbed "WASSA" (The West Africa Soldiers Social Activity) on Friday, said the role the media played in bringing awareness to the communities and highlighting their activities must be recognized. He acknowledged the support of the military in fighting crime in the region.

"The absence of serious crimes in the municipality these days is the result of the commitment and diligence of the on going joint Military/Police night patrols." Ms Susana Mensah, the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, commended the security agencies for supporting and upholding the security of the country.

Mr Emmanuel Quaye-Sowah, the Eastern Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), said there was the need for people to criticize public institutions including the Police. "People commit mistakes while doing good things." He called on the security agencies to continue to keep and promote the peace in the country.

Mrs Ewuraba Ahwoi, the Eastern Regional Director of Education who chaired the function, called on the public to form neighbourhood watch committees to assist the police in fighting crime. She said more women should join the Police Service so as to make the call for women's participation in all fields a reality.