The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), James Oppong-Boanuh has disclosed that over 6,000 flashpoints have been identified nationwide ahead of the December elections.
Mr. Oppong-Boanuh said the flashpoints were identified based on a number of factors, including "incidents recorded in previous elections, this year's voters' registration exercise, and crime rates and other factors relating to those centers".
"As a result, our approach in these areas will be slightly different from other areas" he added.
The IGP, who doubles as the Chairman of the National Election security taskforce was addressing the media at a news conference in Accra, on measures put in place to ensure maximum security before, during, and after the elections in December.
He pointed out that despite the high number of hotspots identified, the election security task force is determined to ensure order, during the elections, thus equal attention will be paid to other areas.
"Saturated patrols and standby forces may be visible to prevent any mishap," he said.
He further noted that the security services have been working with the Electoral Commission (EC) to aid effective planning in the run-up to the polls. adding that, measures have been put in place to provide adequate protection for EC officials and election materials.
"Our priority areas include providing security for the commissioners, the polling stations, the coalition centers, the Electoral materials, the offices, logistics, and polling facilities ". he said.
Candidates, voters, observers, and reporters will also receive security during the elections.
The police chief urged Religious leaders, Traditional leaders, as well as political party leaders to advise their followers to respect laid down procedures during the polls, and warned party supporters against moving from polling station to polling station under the guise of monitoring the election process.
"Experience shows that such movements generate confusion and cause disturbances," he said.
"The opportunity is already given for their observation through the agents they put at polling and coalition centers". he added.
"Violence does not pay. Electoral related violence will only lead to human suffering and undermine the very country candidates want to lead". The IGP further noted.
Story by Rodney Tsenuokpor
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