GAB,Police, Intetior Ministry poised to set standards for fortified vehicles for money transportation

The Ghana Association of Bankers (GAB) was working with the Ghana Police Service, the Ministry for The Interior and the Bank of Ghana to set standards for the procurement of fortified vehicles for money transportation in the country.

These vehicles, when brought in the coming months, would replace the soft- skinned bullion vans currently used by many banks which have become easy target for armed robbers.

The Chief Executive of GAB, Mr John Awuah disclosed this when the association donated 2,000 protective kits, comprising 1,000 bullet proof armoured vests and 1,000 ballistic helmets to the Service in Accra yesterday to augment the security of its personnel.

Mr Awuah stated that the donation was in response to an appeal by the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, James Oppong-Boanuh for such logistics to ensure Police personnel on escort duties on the cash-in-transit operations were protected.

‘’The gesture was to help protect police personnel who put their lives at risk daily to protect not only their banks but citizenry from criminals, ’he added.

He said members of the association had enjoyed cordial working relationship with the Police and therefore deemed it a step in the right direction to seek the welfare of their partners in operation.

Describing as unfortunate the death of personnel in the line of duty, he said “As we think about our security we need to also ensure that those who protect us are also protected.”

Mr Awuah said although the protective gear would not take away the risk involved in their work, it would mitigate it.

The Director General of the National Protective Department Commissioner of Police (COP) Patrick Atampugre Akolgo who represented the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr George Akuffo Dampare said in the security industry, body helmet and shield helmet were very important gear for the men and women in crime prevention.

‘’There is therefore no doubt that the body armour and steel helmet we are receiving today will greatly enhance the safety of our gallant officers and men in their daily operations to protect life and properties, which is one of our core mandate,’’ he added.

He said crime fighting was a shared responsibility and stressed the need for collaboration.

‘’We have a duty as a Service, to protect the lives and property of the community we serve, reduce the occurrence and fear of crime, preserve peace and provide a safe environment while working in partnership with the communities to enhance quality of life,” COP Akolgo added.

He said Ghana remains one of the safest countries in the sub-region and the Police Administration was working tirelessly to ensure Ghana was safer.

COP Akolgo stated that the Police Administration was committed to giving their officers and men the best training and provide the necessary logistics.

The Director-General commended the members of the association for the kind gesture and assured that they would be used for its intended purpose.

BY ANITA NYARKO-YIRENKYI AND JONATHAN DONKOR