Post-election security checks intensified

Page 48: Daily Graphic, December 10, 2008.
Story: Albert K. Salia
THE security agencies have begun road blocks and snap checks throughout the country as part of the post-election operations.
The joint police/military teams, will also intensify day and night operations, while personnel of the Rapid Deployment Force, (RDF) have been put on high alert to deal with any emergencies.
The Director of Police Public Affairs, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Samuel Kwesi Ofori, told the Daily Graphic that the exercise is to make the physical presence of the security agencies felt throughout the country.
He appealed to members of the public not to be intimidated by the road blocks, snap checks and patrols because they are in their interest.
He also reminded members of the public that the Public Order Act had not been relaxed and, therefore, urged any individual or group of persons, as well as organisations seeking to organise any public gathering, demonstration or protests to give notice to the police five clear days ahead.
DSP Ofori said the police would not tolerate any acts of lawlessness during celebrations or protests.
He appealed to Ghanaians not to indulge in acts that could lead to the breach of the law.
According to him, the security personnel will remain vigilant and show the same level of professionalism in their post-election operations.
Prior to last Sunday’s polls, the National Elections Security Task Force,announced a three-phase security arrangements for the country.
Phase One of the security operations, which started on September 8, and ended on December 6, was characterised by intensified political campaigns and preparation and distribution of electoral materials and personnel throughout the country.
It was anticipated that Phase Two, which started from December 7, 2008 and ends tomorrow, Thursday, December 11, 2008, would be characterised by the casting of votes, counting of votes/compilation of results and mounting tension and anxiety associated with the elections, recovery of election materials and personnel, announcement of results and possible conflict.
To deal with the security threats associated with Phase II, personnel of the security services were to be deployed at all polling stations, escort and protect election officers and materials, as well as maintain and restore law and order at all flash points.
The RDFs would be maintained in central positions, monitor situation reports through joint operations rooms, that is, election control centres, maintain close liaison with the Electoral Commission(EC) and intensify day and night patrols.
Phase III, which would span the period December 10 to March 10, 2009, will be characterised by the declaration of results, celebrations, victory rallies, protests or demonstrations by the defeated, trading of accusations and crowd disturbances, a second round presidential election, if necessary, and the possibility of non-acceptance of election results, whether limited or general.
The security services were expected to enhance Operation Calm Life, monitor post-election activities, maintain the RDFs and maintain border security in conjunction with other security agencies and the security forces of neighbouring countries.