The Ghanaian government is intensifying its efforts to combat a burgeoning trend of private security forces – individuals and groups operating outside the established framework of the state’s security apparatus – following a direct instruction from the Interior Minister, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak. This directive underscores a serious concern regarding the proliferation of these groups, which Minister Muntaka has termed as ‘illegal and a threat to the integrity of Ghana’s security architecture.’
The Ministry’s response comes following a recent analysis by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, indicating a noticeable increase in the number of politicians, traditional leaders, and other groups forming these private security units. Mr. Muntaka, during a press conference at the Police Regional Command Conference, explicitly stated that the Vigilantism and Related Offences Act, 2019 (Act 999), which prohibits the formation of vigilante groups or private forces to provide security outside the state’s recognized structures, serves as a crucial legal framework for this situation. This legislation is the cornerstone of the government’s response.
The Minister’s direct instruction to the IGP is a significant escalation in the administration’s commitment to addressing this issue. Specifically, the IGP is tasked with identifying and thoroughly investigating any individuals or groups involved in establishing and operating these private security forces. This is a crucial step in enforcing the law and ensuring that those involved are held accountable for their actions, according to the government’s policy.
Further emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Mr. Muntaka emphasized that the government has observed a concerning trend of politicians, traditional leaders, and various other groups forming these private security units for personal protection. This trend, he asserted, undermines the established order and poses a potential security risk. The Ministry is determined to proactively combat this growing problem.
To bolster the response, the Interior Minister has issued a directive to police officers to strictly prohibit the recording and dissemination of videos of recruits during training sessions on social media platforms. This restriction is a deliberate measure to safeguard the professionalism and operational integrity of the police force. The emphasis on maintaining discipline and professionalism is a key component of this directive, reflecting a commitment to upholding the standards expected of law enforcement officers.
The government acknowledges the complexities of this situation, recognizing that the formation of private security units can have unintended consequences. The Inspector-General of Police has reiterated the need for officers to remain vigilant, maintain strict adherence to established protocols, and prioritize the safety and well-being of the public. The IGP has stressed the importance of discretion, particularly when handling sensitive information related to police training and operations. The Ministry is actively working to ensure that all actions are conducted within the bounds of the law, safeguarding the integrity of the security apparatus.
This directive follows a series of recent discussions within the security establishment, highlighting the need for a coordinated and decisive approach to tackling this multifaceted challenge. The government’s focus is on establishing clear lines of responsibility and ensuring that any individuals or groups engaging in the practice of forming private security forces are brought to justice, thereby restoring order and confidence within Ghana’s security landscape. The long-term strategy involves a sustained effort to address the root causes of this issue and prevent future occurrences.
Specifically, the IGP is expected to conduct thorough investigations into the activities of these groups, identify potential risks, and implement appropriate measures to mitigate any threats to public safety. The Ministry is also exploring avenues to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws and regulations related to private security operations, ensuring a consistent and effective response to this escalating situation. Further details regarding the specific measures to be implemented are expected to be outlined in a forthcoming report.”
Source: Adom Online
