The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has given firm assurance that the Ghana Police Service is fully prepared to provide maximum security for the upcoming by-election in Akwatia, Eastern Region.
Mr. Yohuno made the remarks when he led members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) to the High-Risk Operation Training Centre (HROTC) at Akyerematen on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, to inspect the preparedness of personnel ahead of the polls.
The visit, according to the Police Service, formed part of measures to enhance operational readiness and to maintain law and order before, during, and after the election.
The IGP explained that specially trained units had been deployed to handle any situation that may arise, assuring all stakeholders — voters, electoral officials, political parties, and the media — of their safety.
“We have deployed men who have been well-trained in handling arms and high-risk operations. As part of our preparation, we are assessing all identified threats in Akwatia. Social media reports of possible disturbances have only strengthened our resolve to prepare adequately and assure residents that no one will be allowed to disrupt the election,” the IGP stated.
Simulation Exercise
The training session was climaxed with a full-scale simulation to demonstrate police readiness for election-related incidents.
In the first phase, plainclothes officers acted as civilians queuing peacefully to cast their votes. Drones were deployed to monitor the area remotely, providing real-time surveillance in line with operational standards and respect for human rights.
The exercise simulated an attack in which heavily built men attempted to snatch ballot boxes. Officers on the ground quickly moved into an extended formation, subdued the attackers, and transported them away in a police Black Maria.
This was followed by sharp-shooting drills, where officers engaged in precision firing at balloon and bottle targets mounted on poles.
The drill, completed in under 30 seconds by pairs of officers, demonstrated their ability to neutralize threats while minimizing collateral damage.
The final display featured rappelling exercises, where officers descended from a steep mountain into a crowd.
One officer, referred to as the “master rappeller,” showcased his ability to fire accurately while suspended on a rope.
Large-Scale Deployment
According to the IGP, nearly 5,000 officers have been earmarked for deployment to Akwatia, including about 600 armed officers trained in public order management, checkpoint operations, and vehicle searches.
He stressed that the Police Service was determined to fortify all electoral areas and collation centres to prevent disturbances.
Mr. Yohuno expressed confidence in his men, commending their dedication and urging them to discharge their duties with professionalism to uphold the image of the Service.