President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday handed over forty (40) advanced armoured vehicles to the Ghana Police Service, reaffirming government’s commitment to strengthening internal security, protecting lives and property, and empowering the police to combat rising crime across the country.
The fleet, comprising fifteen (15) armoured pick-ups, twenty (20) COBRA-3s and five (5) COBRA-4 high-grade armoured carriers, was presented at a ceremony held at the Emergency Command Centre of the Ghana Police Service in Accra. The event was attended by the Minister for the Interior, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), senior officers, traditional leaders, and invited guests.
Addressing the gathering, President Mahama praised the dedication and bravery of police officers who risk their lives daily to safeguard the nation.
“I salute the courageous men and women of the Ghana Police Service—those who patrol our streets at night, those who run toward danger when others flee, and those who sacrifice daily to protect Ghanaian families,” he said.
He reminded officers that the new vehicles must be used responsibly:
“These machines are instruments of responsibility. Use them professionally, lawfully, and ethically. Let your conduct reflect the honour of your uniform and the trust the people of Ghana place in you.”
The President announced that the vehicles will be strategically deployed nationwide based on intelligence and operational needs, forming part of enhanced rapid response mechanisms and coordinated intelligence-sharing structures.
While underscoring the importance of strong security operations, he noted that crime prevention also depends on jobs, development, and community wellbeing.
“A secure Ghana will be built not only through safeguards, but through opportunity, dignity, and resilience,” he stated.
He issued a stern warning to criminal elements:
“Your activities will be disrupted, your networks dismantled, and your impunity brought to an end. Ghana is peaceful but not defenceless. As we commission these vehicles today, we renew our collective resolve to uphold the rule of law and ensure Ghana remains a beacon of peace and security.”
Minister for the Interior Hon Mohammed Muntaka Mubarrak reaffirmed government’s commitment to a modern, intelligence-driven security architecture, noting that the handover reflects the fulfilment of the 2024 People’s Manifesto.
“Today is a declaration of purpose,” he said. “It demonstrates this Government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Republic and strengthening every institution responsible for internal security.”
He emphasised that the armoured vehicles are part of a broader reform agenda including improved training, upgraded accommodation, enhanced welfare, and the integration of advanced technology into security operations.
The Minister also condemned recent attacks on security personnel, describing them as unacceptable and a threat to national stability.
“These attacks must stop. When a citizen raises a hand against a police officer, he strikes at the heart of the state,” he stressed.
To the police officers, he added a strong reminder:
“These resources are not a licence for intimidation. You are guardians of the Republic, not rulers of it. Professionalism and respect must define your service.”
He assured that deployment of the vehicles will be guided strictly by intelligence and operational demand, supported by the emerging Real-Time Crime Centre under the IGP’s leadership.
Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno expressed profound gratitude to President Mahama for delivering on his promise to retool the nation’s security agencies.
“To say we are overjoyed is an understatement,” the IGP said. “These vehicles will ensure utmost protection for our officers as they gallantly execute their mandate.”
He revealed that the Police Service continues to confront increasingly dangerous criminals, with officers often operating in high-risk environments. Despite foiling several robbery attempts and arresting suspects behind rural bank robberies, mobile money attacks, serial murders, vehicle theft syndicates, and fraudulent online delivery schemes, the Service has suffered casualties.
“With these armoured vehicles, we are going to launch bold, robust, and targeted operations throughout the country,” he said. “To those disturbing the peace of this country—your time is up. We will come for you.”
He assured the President that the vehicles will be well maintained and strategically deployed for maximum improvement
As the Christmas season approaches, the IGP also assures the public of comprehensive security arrangements to guarantee safe festivities nationwide.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
