Motorbikes found within 100m of polling stations to be impounded

Police in the Ashanti Region have been charged to exhibit professionalism and neutrality in the discharge of their duties to ensure that the December 7 polls are conducted in an atmosphere of peace and justice.

Regional Police Commander, COP Nathan Kofi Boakye, says officers should not shirk their responsibilities under the cover of politics to mar the electoral process. He was addressing district and divisional commanders in Ashanti Region on preparations of the police ahead of the polls.

COP Boakye says the police would need to stand out in their professional conduct if they are to clear public doubt of the Service being in bed with a political party.

He urged his officers to be bold in arresting anyone who attempts to disrupt the electoral process in order to maintain public trust. He also said motorbikes should not be 100 metres close to any polling station, failure to comply with that will see an arrest.

“Any person riding a motorbike who comes 100 metres near a polling station with his motor will be arrested because most people use motorbikes to snatch ballot boxes. “Also, any person found in possession of a gun – whether licensed or unlicensed – on the election day will be arrested and detained.” COP Kofi Boakye assured that the police will enforce the law without fear or favour to uphold the peace.

He also charged the media to report accurately and refrain from sourcing their information from social media and other unsubstantiated outlets.