By Iddi Yire, GNA
Accra, Nov. 13, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama on Friday commissioned 111 vehicles and a modern forensic laboratory for the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) as part of efforts to modernise the country’s intelligence architecture and enhance the operational efficiency of the agency.
The vehicles comprise 100 Mitsubishi pickup trucks, six Toyota Land Cruiser station wagons and five Toyota Prado vehicles.
The President also commissioned a renovated interrogation centre for the Bureau.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Mahama commended Mr Charles Alhassan Kipo, Director-General of the BNI, for his leadership and commitment to modernising the institution.
He cited the recent commissioning of the Bureau’s new regional headquarters in the Ahafo Region as evidence of the progress being made under the Director-General’s tenure.
“Let me first commend the Director General of the Bureau for the hard work and modernization that we are seeing during his tenure of office,” President Mahama said.
“Recently I was with him in Ahafo to open the new regional headquarters of the Bureau. Very distinguished, comfortable place to work.”
The President announced that nine additional regional offices were under construction and expected to be completed next year.
He said the modern facilities would not only boost the morale of officers but also ensure dignity and comfort for members of the public who interacted with the Bureau.
“It boosts the morale of our officers who work in the Bureau. And then also it respects the dignity of people who have to come to the Bureau,” he stated.
He said the completion of the ongoing projects would bring the number of modernised regional offices to at least nine by 2027.
The President noted that the modernisation of the Bureau formed part of broader efforts by the Government to strengthen the operational capacity and public image of key security and intelligence institutions.
He urged drivers and transport officers of the Bureau to ensure proper maintenance of the newly commissioned vehicles.
“If we maintain these vehicles properly, for a minimum of eight years, 10 years, we will still have them in good condition, so the drivers and the transport sector, I charge you to make sure that we get the best mileage out of these vehicles,” he said.
President Mahama announced that additional vehicles would be procured for the security agencies in 2027, with the Bureau expected to receive more vehicles to expand its fleet.
Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, Minister for the Interior, cautioned communities against confrontations with security personnel during official operations.
While advocating accountability within the security services, he stressed the need for public cooperation during security operations to prevent unnecessary injuries and loss of life.
He said Ghana’s security had implications beyond its borders and urged security institutions to remain mindful of the interconnected nature of threats within the West African sub-region.
According to the Minister, a secure Ghana contributes significantly to regional stability, particularly among neighbouring countries.
Mr Charles Alhassan Kipo, Director-General of the BNI, said the commissioning of the renovated interrogation centre, the new forensic laboratory and the additional vehicles reflected sustained investment in strengthening the Bureau’s infrastructure, technological capabilities and operational readiness.
He said the interventions would enhance the Bureau’s effectiveness in carrying out its mandate.
GNA
Edited by Lydia Kukua Asamoah