The Kumasi Police Command has beefed up security personnel in the Ashanti Region ahead of the Easter celebrations.

The initiative comes at a time when most Ghanaians are preparing to celebrate the Easter holidays albeit with strict adherence to the necessary Coivd-19 safety protocols.

According to the Deputy Ashanti Regional Commander, DCOP David Agyemang Adjem, statutory public holidays such as the Easter celebration presents the perfect opportunity for criminals to attack members of the public which calls for a beef-up of the region's security.

DCOP Adjem indicated that the security personnel deployed into the streets of the region have been tasked to safeguard residents of the region.

"We are also going to ensure that roads are safe and also ensure that those who come to town to transact business are protected because we have taken a number of patrols in this regard", adding that "people must be mindful of what they do in this time of era of digital space and living.

The Regional Commander cautioned residents who are active on social media not to post their locations and activities online as it informs thieves of their absence from home and sets them up to be burgled.

"People are travelling and they are putting everything that is happening on their timeliness and so people know when you are out. So when they are going out, especially during this festive [period] where they are many church services, they should ensure that at least somebody is home," he added.

He also urged residents to be observant and cautious of their environment as they head out of their homes.

Meanwhile, DCOP David Agyemang Adjem entreated all faith-based institutions to desist from flouting Covid-19 safety protocols and ensure only 100 congregants are seated for service.

"We are encouraging all churches and mosques and all religious bodies to hold their services but only for a maximum of 100 participants and of course to observe the Covid-19 protocols for their conventions. Crusades, pilgrimages and large gatherings would not be allowed.

"Carnivals, beaches and amusement events also cannot be done and all activities that are supposed to be in closed rooms such as pubs and night clubs also remain illegal," he stated.

However, open-air drinking places may operate provided that the observe the necessary safety protocols, he noted.