The Ghana Police Service has taken decisive action by arresting 12 suspects for their alleged involvement in a series of looting and vandalism incidents that have left various parts of the country in disarray. The arrests were announced at a press briefing held at the National Election Security Task Force Press Centre in Accra.
Addressing the media, ACP Grace Ansah Akrofi, the Director of the Public Affairs Directorate of the Ghana Police Service, outlined the extent of the destruction caused by the suspects. According to her, the suspects targeted and damaged state properties, including the Electoral Commission office in Damongo, located in the Savannah Region.
“The suspects attacked and damaged state properties, including the Electoral Commission office in Damongo, Savannah Region,” she disclosed.
ACP Akrofi elaborated on the extent of the suspects’ actions, revealing that they vandalized coalition centres and targeted the residences of district chief executives in several areas. This has not only disrupted local governance but also created fear and panic among the affected communities.
“Additionally, they broke into the school feeding project warehouse in Tamale and made away with foodstuff and other items,” she added, emphasizing the impact of the theft on vulnerable groups such as schoolchildren who depend on the feeding program for daily meals.
The Ghana Police Service has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Investigators have obtained video footage of the incidents, which is currently being reviewed to identify more suspects and establish the full scope of the crimes. ACP Akrofi expressed the police’s resolve to leave no stone unturned in holding those responsible accountable.
“The footage of the attacks, vandalism, and looting has been obtained and is being reviewed by investigators. We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that those responsible for these acts are held accountable,” she assured.
The police have urged members of the public to remain calm as they work to restore order. Officers have been deployed to key locations, and patrols have been intensified to ensure the safety of lives and properties. ACP Akrofi reiterated the importance of maintaining public trust and cooperation during this critical time.
“We urge the general public to remain calm as police officers have been deployed to key locations with intensified patrols to maintain law and order,” she said.
The incidents have sparked concern among citizens, particularly those in affected areas such as Damongo and Tamale, where the looting and vandalism have disrupted normal activities. The attack on the school feeding project warehouse in Tamale has drawn widespread condemnation, as it directly affects the welfare of children enrolled in the program. Many have expressed their support for the police in bringing the perpetrators to book.
Residents of Damongo have also voiced concerns over the damage to the Electoral Commission office, describing it as an attack on democracy. The office serves as a critical hub for electoral processes in the Savannah Region, and its vandalism has raised questions about the motives behind the attacks.
The Ghana Police Service continues to appeal to the public for information that could aid in the investigation. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station. The collaboration between law enforcement and the public is seen as essential in preventing future incidents of this nature.
The suspects currently in custody are being processed for court, and the police have pledged to provide regular updates on the progress of the investigations. ACP Akrofi emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in handling cases of this magnitude, assuring the public that the rule of law will be upheld.
“The Ghana Police Service remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that those who engage in criminal acts face the full consequences of their actions,” she said.
The government has also condemned the incidents, calling on all stakeholders to support the police in their efforts to maintain peace and order. The Ministry of Interior has pledged to provide additional resources to enhance security operations in the affected areas.
Community leaders in the Savannah and Northern regions have expressed their readiness to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. They have also called for calm among residents, urging them not to take the law into their own hands.
The incidents have reignited conversations about the need for stronger security measures and community engagement in addressing issues of vandalism and looting. Many citizens believe that a collaborative approach involving the police, local authorities, and community members is necessary to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigations continue, the Ghana Police Service has reiterated its commitment to upholding peace and security across the country. Citizens have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help authorities maintain order and protect lives and property.
The suspects, if found guilty, are likely to face charges including destruction of public property, theft, and other related offenses. Legal experts have emphasized the importance of swift and fair trials to serve as a deterrent to others.
The police remain resolute in their mission to maintain law and order while rebuilding public confidence in their ability to respond effectively to criminal activities. With increased patrols and community cooperation, authorities are optimistic about restoring calm to affected areas and preventing future disruptions.
