Sunyani: Mr Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister, has announced that the Bono Regional Security Council (REGSEC) is establishing additional police checkpoints along the Sunyani-Atronie and Sunyani-Berekum highways to address the increasing incidents of armed robberies in the region. He expressed confidence that these measures would help curb the criminal activities and ensure public safety on these crucial routes.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Akwaboa assured the communities along the highways, as well as commuters and commercial drivers, of the REGSEC's commitment to handling the recurring armed robbery incidents effectively to protect lives and properties. This assurance was given during his interaction with the Chiefs and people of Atronie in the Sunyani Municipality, where he mentioned that six to seven police checkpoints are being established on the two highways.
The Regional Minister, who also chairs the REGSEC, led council members to evaluate the condition of the highways and inspect the construction of the new police checkpoints. He emphasized that the REGSEC's swift actions aim to restore public confidence and safety in the region's key travel corridors, with some checkpoints potentially serving as permanent police posts.
Mr Akwaboa also revealed plans to install roadside CCTV cameras and extend mobile telecommunication network coverage on the highways to enhance real-time police monitoring and surveillance. He noted that the poor condition of the highways contributes to the ease with which robbers operate, and highlighted ongoing efforts to address both security and infrastructure challenges.
Nana Gyan Katakyie, the Nifahene (sub-chief) of Atronie, appealed to the government to improve the Sunyani-Atronie highway. Meanwhile, Madam Sandra Acquah, a commuter, recommended extending the checkpoints to include the Atronie-Kenyasi stretch of the highway.
