By Evans Worlanyo Ameamu
Keta (VR), Feb. 19, GNA – Some Keta residents welcome the Health Ministry’s order for GHS to enforce 24-hour hospital security after a Mamprobi Polyclinic baby theft.
The order was issued by the Minister for Health in response to the coordinated efforts of the Ghana Police Service, the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, and other stakeholders, including the whistleblower involved in the incident.
Mr Richmond Yao Dekaglo, a local resident, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that Health Minister Mr Kwabena Minta Akandoh directed all health facility administrators to review and strengthen internal security protocols immediately to prevent similar incidents.
“We expect all health facilities in the country to comply with the directive and enforce enhanced security measures, including day and night surveillance, as part of the new safety protocols,” he said.
He added that the Minister reiterated the government’s prior directive requiring all health facilities to install and maintain functional CCTV systems to boost security.
Mr Dekaglo expressed hope that the GHS would oversee the full implementation of the new measures to safeguard patients and ensure accountability in the health sector.
“Many of our health facilities operate without proper oversight; strengthening security is a good call. I hope facilities in Keta and elsewhere comply to protect patients and staff,” he said, supporting the government’s commitment to healthcare accountability.
Madam Cecilia Gomadoh, another resident, noted that the Ministry of Health has reassured the public of the government’s firm commitment to protecting patients and maintaining accountability within hospitals.
She said the enhanced security measures aim to prevent incidents like the Mamprobi Polyclinic baby theft from recurring nationwide and highlighted that the directive is a significant step toward strengthening healthcare security and patient safety, with Keta health facilities expected to implement the measures promptly.
Meanwhile, a press release dated February 18 and signed by Mr Isaac Ofei Baah, Head of Public Relations at the Ministry of Health, called for calm while investigations into the baby theft continue.
The new safety protocols will also involve regular security reviews and updates to internal hospital procedures nationwide, including in Keta.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah/Audrey Dekalu