Police assure public safety ahead of Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey demonstration

The police have assured the public of adequate security and the maintenance of law and order for the planned protest by a group called Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey.In a statement signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, it said that the police received notification from the group on September 26, 2024, regarding a planned procession from Okponglo, Legon, to Independence Square in Accra, scheduled to take place daily from October 3 to 5, 2024.The statement indicated that following discussions with the organizers, the agreed route for the demonstration would start from Okponglo, near the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, which would serve as the gathering point.The procession would proceed through the Okponglo Traffic Light, towards the Shiashie/Ghana Standard Authority Traffic Light, continue past Shangrila to the Airport Traffic Light, and then turn right toward the Association International School.The procession would continue from the Natio nal Service Secretariat, merge onto the Kawukudi Traffic Intersection, and proceed along Kanda Highway to the Accra High School Junction.It would then pass by the Electoral Commission Office, Ridge, and the Ridge Hospital, move through the AU Roundabout to Parliament House, go past Osu Cemetery, and finally conclude at the car park of the Accra Sports Stadium.The statement noted that during discussions with the organizers, the police reminded them of their responsibilities under the Public Order Act.This includes being accountable for any damage to public property during the demonstration.Additionally, all participants must follow police instructions to ensure the safe movement of others and vehicles, while also maintaining overall order.The statement emphasised that under the Public Order Act, individuals participating in the event must conduct themselves in a way that avoids obstructing traffic, creating confusion, or causing disorder.The organisers were also reminded of the police's responsibil ities under the Act, which include taking necessary measures during the demonstration to ensure its proper conduct by directing the routes to prevent any obstruction of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.The statement emphasised that a police officer was authorized to disperse crowds at any special event if there were reasonable grounds to believe that a breach of the peace was imminent, or if one was already occurring, in order to prevent violence, restore order, and maintain peace.It also said that the police may close certain streets or sections to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic and may set up barriers as needed to ensure public order.Source: Ghana News Agency