A non-profit organization committed to public safety in West Africa, has intimated that armed criminals are now more likely to kill or injure their victims.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, the Executive Director of the organisation, Nana Yaw Akwada, advised the general public not to resist when one comes under attack but rather, submit to prevent likely death or serious injury.

He said, research by the Bureau showed that while violent crime cases reported in the year 2020 decreased by eight percent compared to the immediate years before, associated deaths and injuries increased by 14 percent and 63 percent respectively.

Mr Akwada said this indicates that criminals have become more trigger-happy over the years, and would not hesitate to kill or severely injure their victims.

"Just cooperate with criminals once they corner you in an armed attack. Statistics show they will not hesitate to use their weapons," Mr. Akwada said.

He further touched on crime and said its prevention was a mutual task for both the Police and the public.

Mr Akwada advised that individuals take their personal security seriously, especially at home.

He said where possible, homeowners should invest in CCTV cameras, security dogs, strong door and gate locks and all other crime prevention measure relevant to one's home security needs.

Mr Akwada said securing one’s home alone was, however, not enough and adding that, it was equally important to also take measures that keep the entire neighbourhood safe.

"Let us build good neighbourliness. Let us get to know each other. It helps. When you come under criminal attack, you could easily call a neighbor. Neighbors should collaborate," Mr. Akwada said.

He said the Police had to be very dependable in their response to distress calls, saying, "The State should provide spot on security for the public."

Some highlights on the  Ghana Public Safety and Crime Report for the year 2020 (BPS WATCH) by the Bureau, indicated that while overall violent crime cases reported in that year decreased by eight per cent, deaths and injuries that resulted from crime for the year, respectively increased by 14 percent and 63 percent.

The report said for the first time in four years, incidents of murder, manslaughter and aggravated assault and armed robbery cases reported decreased significantly by 14 percent, 33 percent and 38 percent respectively, as compared to 2019.

It said murder and manslaughter cases continued to dominate reported violent crime activities in Ghana, representing 27 percent violent crimes reported in the year 2020.