The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the interception of two Metro Mass Transit (MMT) buses carrying 88 individuals at Benchema, near Asawinso in the Western North Region, on December 3, 2024.
The passengers were allegedly en route to provide unauthorized security at polling stations in the region, raising concerns about electoral security and potential voter intimidation.
Details of the Interception
According to preliminary police reports, the individuals were allegedly recruited by a man identified only as “Sammy” from various communities in the Greater Accra Region, including Adenta, Oyarifa, and Madina. The buses were stopped during a routine patrol, and upon questioning, it emerged that the passengers were being transported to the Western North Region under the guise of providing polling station security.
The police have since detained all 88 individuals, who are currently assisting with investigations. Authorities are treating the situation with urgency, given its implications for the ongoing electoral process.
The recruitment of unauthorized personnel to provide polling station security is a serious breach of electoral laws and could undermine public confidence in the integrity of the upcoming December 7 elections. The Ghana Police Service has emphasized that electoral security is the responsibility of trained law enforcement officers, not private individuals or groups, to ensure neutrality and professionalism.
According to the Police, the search for “Sammy,” the alleged recruiter, is ongoing. Police believe his arrest could provide crucial insights into the broader network behind this operation and whether there are any political or criminal motives involved.
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The Police has assured the public of a thorough and impartial investigation. They are appealing to anyone with information about “Sammy” or the recruitment operation to come forward.
Meanwhile, security at polling stations across the country is being reviewed to prevent unauthorized interventions.
Read the Police official statement on the matter below
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