As the December 7 elections approach, the Ghana Police Service has intercepted 88 individuals suspected of being recruited to provide unauthorized security at polling stations, as reported by GhanaCelebrities on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
The group, consisting of 86 men and two women, was arrested on December 3, 2024, at Benchema near Asawinso in the Western North Region. They were traveling in two Metro Mass Transit buses when apprehended.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were recruited from various locations within the Greater Accra Region, including Adenta, Oyarifa, and Madina.
According to the suspects, they were hired to offer security during the presidential and parliamentary elections. Reports indicate that a man identified only as Sammy allegedly organized the recruitment.
The police are currently holding all suspects in custody as they assist with ongoing investigations.
Efforts are also underway to locate the recruiter, Sammy, and determine the full scope of the alleged unauthorized security arrangements.
This incident has raised concerns over election security, as the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Chairman of the National Election Security Taskforce (NESTF), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, previously issued a strong warning against unauthorized security operations.
He stressed that only state security personnel are authorized to handle election-related security. Dr. Dampare assured the public of the police’s readiness to maintain peace and order during the voting process.
Voters have been encouraged to participate in the elections with confidence, knowing that state security services are equipped to ensure their safety.
