GPHA leads state security apparatus in eye-opening simulation exercise at Port of Tema

Ghana’s state security apparatus at the Port of Tema has once again tested its emergency response systems and interoperability in the recently organized exercise “Kwemo Ojogban,” to wit, “Be Careful.”

This activity forms part of the port’s fulfilment of the ISPS code, which requires member ports to partake in quarterly drills and annual exercises to maintain alertness and combat readiness.

This simulation exercise, which took place on Friday, June 14, saw the combined forces of security personnel, including GPHA Security, Ghana Navy, Marine Police, Immigration, among others, quell four volatile scenarios with relative efficiency.

What is more impressive is the fact that only a few top officials of these institutions knew about the simulation, demonstrating the preparedness levels of officers at various posts.

The exercise featured four scenarios: an uprising at the transit terminal, demonstrators breaching the eastern gate, pirates infiltrating through the fishing area, and the army deactivating an explosive at the central gate.

The incident commander and harbour master at the Port of Tema, Capt. Tawiah rated the performance of the combined forces at 85%.

“It was superb, looking at how the EOD Squad and the Ghana Navy responded. Even within our medical team and the fire and safety, how they responded to the calls. Everything was on course,” he said.

The Tema Port Security Manager, Colonel Benjamin Boamah, was particularly impressed with the interoperability between his outfit and the other security agencies.

“The cooperation has been very good. It exceeded my expectations. Everything went well from the word go. Even the pre-coordinating conferences we had, there was full participation from all parties; therefore, by the time we came in, we were all prepared and knew what was expected of us. When we started, the cooperation and enthusiasm was there; that is why the exercise ended very well and it was very successful,” he said.