Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, the Minister of the Interior, has announced the establishment of a dedicated secretariat for the implementation of a policing system to guarantee security for the 24-hour economy.

He said the initiative aligned with the Government’s commitment to driving economic progress and ensuring Ghana remained competitive in the global economy.

The Minister made the announcement on Friday during a Regional Police Commanders’ Conference in Accra.

Alhaji Muntaka explained that the secretariat would develop and implement sustainable policing models to guarantee security around the clock.

“Whether it is in our bustling cities or in our rural areas, economic activities do not cease, and neither can our vigilance. We are laying the groundwork for a system that is dynamic and responsive to the unique challenges posed by a 24-hour economy,” he said.

“As we embrace this new approach, the safety of businesses, workers and citizens will be prioritised, ensuring that every hour of the day is protected.”

The Minister said the initiative would also be a key tool in the fight against crime and the protection of economic assets nationwide.

He expressed confidence in the Ghana Police Service’s leadership and its commitment to making the vision of a secure and vibrant economy a reality.

He pledged to ensure that policing was not only efficient but accessible and responsive to the needs of citizens, hence the three-day orientation for all regional and unit police public relations officers by the Police Administration.

“The orientation will provide officers with the knowledge and skills to better engage with the community, share crucial information, and create a visible and tangible impact in the lives of the people we serve,” he said.

Alhaji Muntaka said strengthening communication channels and ensuring that officers were well-equipped would foster a more proactive and transparent approach to crime prevention and public safety.

It would also bring policing closer to the communities, in line with international best practices and foster a sense of trust and collaboration between the police and the people, he said.

However, the Minister raised concerns over the private security assignments within the police force, calling for greater oversight.

“You go around our country and you see so many of your men and women, protecting private individuals, whether in their homes, providing them with runners to lead them through the city.”

“How much checks have you done on them? How much checks have you done in their business that they carry? I want to suggest to you, we need to come up with a measure that will safeguard and streamline this activity that we carry across the country,” he said.

The Minister revealed that he had already written to the Inspector-General of Police requesting a report on all private individuals receiving police protection.

He also noted the cash-in-transit security, calling for stricter regulations on police-escorted cash transport vehicles.

“After the initial inspections by the police ballistic unit, what happens to those onboard the vehicles? Where are they serviced? Where are they parked at the end of the day?”

“The drivers, what kind of training have you given them? Is it not a tool that can be used after the banking activity to also worsen the crime situation in our country?,” he questioned.

Alhaji Muntaka revealed that since assuming office, he had overseen the deportation of over 107 foreign nationals involved in fraudulent activities and illegal mining.

He, therefore, directed regional police commanders to work closely with immigration officials to ensure the immediate repatriation of any foreigner found guilty of such offenses.

He advocated a mandatory firearm training for individuals issued gun licenses, proposing a new policy where firearm applicants must complete certified training before obtaining a license.

The Minister reaffirmed the police administration’s commitment, under the leadership of Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, the IGP, to eradicating violent crimes and ensuring perpetrators faced the full force of the law.

He acknowledged the appointment of Commissioner of Police Mrs Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah as a Technical Advisor to the Ministry, stating that her expertise and innovative approach to policing would be instrumental in shaping new crime-fighting strategies.

Alhaji Muntaka reassured international investors and businesses of the Government’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for economic activities.

He urged Regional Commanders to remain dedicated to their roles and work collaboratively with stakeholders to build a future where peace and security served as the foundation of national success.

Mr Yohuno, on his part, commended police officers for their sacrifices and contributions to national security.

He acknowledged the transformations the Ghana Police Service had undergone over the years but stressed the need for continuous innovation in response to evolving security challenges.

“Security is not seen but felt. Our work is only complete when the people of Ghana feel safe and confident in the protection we provide. Therefore, complacency has no place in our profession,” he said.

The IGP urged the personnel to work tirelessly to enhance Ghana’s security and uphold the trust placed in them by the citizenry.