Ashanti Regional Minister, Samuel Sarpong, will from next week join police/military night patrol team in a determined move clamp down on criminal gangs in the region. Though the move may sound odd, Mr. Sarpong believes it will enable him better acquaint himself with the security situation at first hand. He indicates with his security background, he will be more informed on the field than sitting in the office to wait for situational reports. In an exclusive interview with Nhyira Fm’s Kofi Asante, Mr. Sarpong described as “alarming” the continued reports of robbery in the region. Cases of robbery and other security threats such as involvement of foreign nationals in the illegal mining business popularly called “galamsey”, have been on the increase in the region since the beginning of this year. Residents of Aboabo, Sawaba, Akorem and surrounding communities have for some time now, been living in fear of persistent attacks by weapon-wielding young men. Mr. Sarpong says the Regional Coordinating Council has resolved to introduce ten hotlines for the police to enhance crime fighting. The hotlines which are being generated by the various telecommunication networks, are expected to be ready within two weeks. Mr. Sarpong assured residents of immediate measures to bring to book all troublemakers in the region.