President John Dramani Mahama has handed over 40 operational vehicles to the Ghana Police Service, declaring an unwavering commitment to protect every citizen and secure the nation’s peace.
At a ceremony at the Police Headquarters in Accra, the President noted that the procurement was a direct fulfilment of his administration’s pledge to retool and modernise all security agencies, to ensure that officers were properly equipped for their frontline role as guardians of the nation.
“Today, as we hand over these 40 advanced armoured vehicles… we are renewing our covenant with the people of Ghana. That this nation will protect its citizens, that peace will be defended, and that Ghana will remain secure, stable, and just,” President Mahama said.
The ceremony was attended by the Minister of the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, top brass of the security agencies, and senior police officers.
The new fleet comprises 15 armoured pickups, five Cobra-4, and 20 Cobra-3 special armoured vehicles, described as “operational tools, not symbols,” designed for high-risk environments, rugged terrain, and rapid response.
In a message to criminal elements, the President issued a stern warning: “Let me state clearly. Our dear country Ghana will not surrender a single street, a community, or any public space to criminals, today, tomorrow, or forever.”
He continued, “to those who insist on disturbing the peace of our nation… our message is simple. The Ghanaian state is ready. The Ghana police service is ready. The laws of this republic will deal decisively with anyone who endangers the safety of our people.”
President Mahama assured the police officers of his administration’s commitment to their safety, and linked past tragedies to inadequate equipment.
“Too often, we have lost men in the line of duty because we send them on missions and assignments without providing them with the appropriate equipment to ensure their safety,” he noted, adding, “That is going to be a thing of the past,” he said.
He assured that the government would ensure officers return safely to their families, stating, “We will give you the right instruments so that as you do your duty, you also are safe.”
President Mahama revealed that the 40 vehicles were just the first batch, with two tow trucks expected by the end of the month, 10 covert Corvette operational vehicles, and a pickup for every police district to follow.
He also announced plans to train a police detachment in the use of drones for surveillance and information gathering.
While emphasising enhanced operational capability, the President stressed that security must be coupled with accountability.
“The police must not only be feared by wrongdoers, but citizens must also trust the police,” he said.
President Mahama also highlighted concurrent reforms in training, recruitment, supervision, and respect for human rights.
Directly appealing to the officers who will use the vehicles, the President emphasised the importance of responsible use.
“These equipment are expensive and hard to procure… Use them professionally, lawfully, and ethically, and let your conduct reflect the honour of your uniform and the trust the people of Ghana place in you,” he said.
He paid glowing tribute to the service and sacrifice of police personnel: “To the courageous men and women… those who rush towards danger when all of us are running away… your service is valued.”
The President framed the investment within a broader national security architecture that includes job creation, community development, and poverty reduction.
“A secure Ghana will be built not only through safeguards, but also through opportunity, dignity, and trust,” he said.
The Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, receiving the vehicles, expressed profound gratitude for the government’s support, stating that the assets would significantly boost the Police Service’s capacity to combat crime and protect citizens.
The Inspector General of Police, receiving the vehicles, framed them as essential tools in a renewed fight against crime.
“This calls for critical logistics that will never else rise above these threats and take on criminal elements head-on, while ensuring the safety of our officers,” he said.
He thanked the President for his immediate focus, noting, “It therefore came as no surprise to me that one of the first things you did was to take steps for the police service to enhance officers’ safety, improve our operational efficiency, and ensure a high level of security across the country.”
The IGP cited recent successes but also highlighted the grave dangers officers face.
“In addition to several robust, true, sustained intelligence operations, we have successfully arrested suspects who operated under the illusion that they were police officers… Our response was decisive and effective, and all these suspects are currently before the court.”
Promising an aggressive new phase of operations, Mr Yohuno issued a stern warning to criminals nationwide.
“With these vehicles, we are going to launch very bold, robust and targeted operations throughout the country. We will dismantle any existing criminal networks,” he said.
Credit: Graphic Online
