Some youth in Tamale have taken to the streets to protest the recall of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Special Operations Team, popularly known as the Black Maria, from the Northern Region.

The team was deployed to the region last year following a surge in robberies and other crimes. Residents say its presence has significantly reduced criminal activity in the area.

“The team’s presence has not only sanitised the area but has reduced crime to the barest minimum,” a youth leader said. “The issues of drug use and sale have also reduced, making the region safe.”

Several residents also expressed appreciation for the team’s work, saying the improved security has made it safer to move around at night.

One resident noted that the security presence has changed daily routines.

“I’m free to roam late into the night because of the presence of the team. Me, for instance, I used to be home by 7 pm, but now I can roam and come home at 12 and not worry about being attacked.”

Another resident shared a similar experience.

“There are some areas you couldn’t walk through at night after 8 pm, but now you can even roam till the next morning and be safe.”

The recall of the team is believed to have been influenced by pressure from some politicians and traditional authorities who are reportedly unhappy with the team’s continued presence in the region.

However, the protesting youth insist the security unit should remain.

“Anyone who does not want the Black Maria team in Tamale is evil,” one protester said.

Another protester appealed directly to the police leadership.

“For the sake of the region’s future, we are begging the IGP to let the team stay.”

Meanwhile, residents have launched a social media campaign calling on the police administration to reverse the decision to withdraw the team from the region.