By Agbaxode Emmanuel
Akatsi (V/R), June 12, GNA – Some residents of Akatsi South Municipality have appealed to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to recognise and motivate officers of the Akatsi Police Command whose efforts led to the interception of large quantities of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp on two separate occasions within a week.
The residents said the officers had demonstrated commitment, vigilance, and professionalism in combating illicit drug trafficking and other criminal activities in the area and deserved commendation.
Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on condition of anonymity, some residents expressed concern that despite the successful operations, the officers involved were yet to receive any public recognition or incentive to encourage them in the discharge of their duties.
According to them, rewarding hardworking officers would boost morale and inspire other personnel to intensify efforts in the fight against crime.
“We have witnessed instances where officers in other parts of the country received recognition for outstanding performances. “We believe the Akatsi officers also deserve encouragement for their dedication to duty and contribution to public safety,” one resident stated.
The appeal follows two major interceptions by officers of the Akatsi Police Command within a space of one week in May this year.
On May 18, police officers intercepted a Renault Trafic mini cargo vehicle loaded with 732 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp at Adeheta near Akatsi. The vehicle, with registration number VR 405-18, was intercepted while heading towards Akatsi, and the driver was subsequently detained to assist with investigations.
Sources indicated that the suspect allegedly attempted to bribe the officers during the operation, but the officers resisted the attempt and proceeded with the arrest and seizure.
Four days later, on May 22, the Akatsi Police intercepted another consignment comprising 1,183 parcels of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp at Deti in the Akatsi South Municipality following a tip-off.
The driver of the vehicle reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled upon noticing a police pursuit, leaving behind the suspected narcotic substances and the vehicle, which were subsequently conveyed to the Akatsi Police Station for further investigations.
Residents described the two operations as significant achievements in the fight against drug trafficking in the municipality, noting that the seizures had prevented the suspected substances from reaching their intended destinations.
They observed that Akatsi South and surrounding communities had recorded several criminal acts recently, and more were called for increased police presence, including the posting of more personnel and the provision of adequate logistics and resources to strengthen crime-fighting efforts in the area.
The residents further urged the IGP to consider recognising the officers involved in the operations as a way of boosting morale and encouraging continued dedication among personnel serving in the area.
They also appealed for sustained collaboration between the police and the public through timely information sharing to enhance security and protect lives and property.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Agbaxode Emmanuel