The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has praised the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, for his outstanding performance in ensuring peace and security in the country.
The King of the Asante Kingdom made this remark when the IGP and his team paid a courtesy call on him at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Friday, January 14, 2024.
The IGP was accompanied by the members of the Police Management Board (POMAB) and the Regional Police Commander.
The visit was to wish the Asantehene a Happy New Year and to brief him on the security situation in the Ashanti Region and the country at large.
The IGP said the visit was also in accordance with tradition and to seek the blessings and guidance of the Asantehene, who has been a pillar of support for the Police Service.
“We are very thankful for his kindness towards us and receiving us in his residence. We pray for strength, peace, and blessings for him,” Dr Dampare said.
He also introduced the members of the POMAB to the Asantehene and thanked them for their dedication and hard work.
Dr Dampare told the Asantehene that the Police Service had put in place various measures to ensure utmost peace and tranquillity during the festive season and beyond.
He said these measures had resulted in a reduction of road accidents, robbery, and other crimes in the Ashanti Region and the whole country.
He said the Police Service had also enhanced its visibility and patrol with the deployment of horses and motors, adding that the horses would remain in the region and serve as the country’s first regional Mounted Squadron.
The Asantehene expressed his appreciation for the warm visit and commended the IGP and the POMAB for their yeoman’s job since taking over the administration of the country’s Police Service.
“Thank you for the exceptional work you have done since you assumed office. The impact of your service to the country is felt in our homes. Ghanaians now know the true definition of security, and that is all because of the sound measures you have in place,” Otumfuo said.
He added, “You are responsible for maintaining peace while the military is meant for wars. Continue with the good work.”
The Asantehene also welcomed the establishment of a Mounted Squadron in the region and pledged to assist the Service in getting a barn to house the horses.
He also urged the Police Service to implement sound policies that would ensure a peaceful and incident-free election in December, noting that there was a lingering sense of panic during such periods.