Police advised to learn local languages

Tema, March 6, GNA - The Tema Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police, (ACP) Daniel Laryea Odai, has advised Policemen on the need to acquaint themselves with local languages to make information gathering easier.

According to him during investigations, some times information are gathered from the public at social gatherings and especially from drinking bars where the people there might not speak English nor any of the Akan languages. "Therefore it will be an advantage if you learn at least any of the languages apart from the ones you already know to also make communication during investigations easier", he added.

He gave the advice at the annual WASSA get together of the Community One District Police in Tema, over the weekend. He advised on the need for the Police to be free with their people and work in collaboration with them to get information on the hide-outs of criminals for prosecution.

The former Tema Regional Commander, Mrs Agnes Sikanartey, noted the role of the Police in the administration of justice and reminded them on the need to be circumspect, firm and impartial in the discharge of their duties.

He advised them to be disciplined, hardworking and to make sure to retire honourably.

The Acting District Commander of the Community One Police Station, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Joseph Hagen, said in the year 2004, although the fix duty points for them to cover were more than the number of personnel at the station, with determination they were able to perform creditably.

On the crime front he said assault and stealing cases recorded the highest number with 1,604 and 967 for the year 2004, and hoped with much support from the neighbourhood watch committees, the crime rate would be reduced in the area.

He mentioned lack of logistics and accommodation as the major problem facing them in the District and appealed to the Government and other organisations to come to their aid.