Kumasi, Sept 19, GNA- Mr Ofosu-Mensah Gyeabour, Ashanti Regional Police Commander, has advised politicians to be circumspect in their pronouncements so that the peace and stability in the country could be sustained.
"We must all ensure that we do not compromise the peace and stability we have been enjoying for about a decade", he said. Speaking at an encounter with the media in Kumasi on Friday, Mr Gyeabour, who was transferred from the Western Region to Ashanti recently, said it was his responsibility to ensure that everybody conducted his or her activities in a way that will not disturb the good order of the society.
He said the regional police command was determined to build a better image of the Police Service but asked the police to be mindful of the fact that they cannot redeem their image unless they respected themselves and gave the public the respect, courtesy and sincerity they deserved.
"We should extend friendly hands of co-operation to the public without compromising professionalism", adding that his administration will stand solidly behind any policeman who performed his duty in a manner expected of him or her.
The Regional Police Commander assured the public that the police will go all out to wage war on criminals and anti-social activities including armed robberies, motor offences like reckless driving, the use of defective vehicles and all forms of indiscipline on the roads. Mr Gyeabour also cautioned the public to take note of crime prevention messages sent out by the police and see the police as partners against crime and not enemies.
"They should also see the police as a law enforcing institution established to always uphold the laws and the constitution of the land", he said.
Touching on police-press relations, he asked the press to draw the attention of the regional police command to lapses on the part of police personnel but must avoid derogatory and stereotyped comments that tended to demoralise the personnel.
"We are assuring you that we are prepared to take constructive criticisms in good faith and work for the achievement of maximum efficiency".
Mr Gyeabour hoped the meeting will equip the press to be circumspect in reporting matters bordering on national security, personalities and people in responsible positions.
