IGP instructed to ensure rigorous enforcement of mask wearing at all public places

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has instructed the IGP James Oppong Boanuh to deploy police officers to enforce the directive of compulsory mask-wearing at public places.

He made this known in his 22nd update to the nation on measures his government has put in place to fight the novel Coronavirus on Sunday, January 17, 2021.

Akufo-Addo indicated that the Ghana Police Service and other security services will work to ensure that night clubs, and pubs and beaches are closed down immediately.

"I have instructed the Inspector General of Police to direct officers, men and women of the Police Service to ensure the rigorous enforcement of the law on mask-wearing at all public places and in public transport. They are also to ensure the closure of all night clubs, pubs, cinemas and beaches that may be operating in defiance of the law. They will be assisted by the other security agencies, if need be," he said.

Akufo-Addo added that, "persons in market places, workplaces, and operators of public transport must conduct their activities in accordance with the hygiene and safety protocols. The wearing of masks in these places is mandatory. Regulatory agencies will undertake random checks to ensure conformity with COVID-19 rules. Should any facility or institution fail to comply with these directives, its activities will be immediately prohibited, and appropriate sanctions applied."

President Akufo-Addo then reminded Ghanaians that severe punishments exist "on our statute books for persons breaking the law on the mandatory wearing of masks."

He stressed, "Should anyone be arrested by the security agencies disregarding this directive, that person will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law."

Watch below President Akufo-Addo's 22nd address to the nation.