The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has announced that they will provide enhanced security for the general public during the upcoming Easter celebration.
In a presser by the service today, it admonished citizens to adhere by the safety protocol government has put in place during the Easter period. Additionally, the GPS also said they will strictly enforce the restrictions.
“The Christendom will celebrate Easter festivities from Friday 2nd April 2021 to Monday 5th April 2021 across the world. In Ghana, this will be characterize by religious activities and amusement events. The Police Service per its mandate, will provide enhanced security during the period.
“It therefore appeals to the general public to abide by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) restrictions imposed by the President. With legal backing of the Parliament of Ghana, the Police will strictly enforce same.”
Ghana Police Service
Road Safety During Easter
On the issue of road safety, the Police Service disclosed that, it will together with road safety partners ensure that, Police Officers will be present at mapped out traffic congestion and accident-prone areas. Additionally, it said people who drive beyond speed limit; overload, drink and drive and indulge in such other traffic irregularities shall be arrested.
Touching on the protocols with regards to religious activities, the Service notes that, it expects church, mosque and religious bodies to hold services not beyond two hours for 100 participants maximum only while observing all other COVID-19 protocols.
“Conventions, crusades, pilgrimages and such large physical gatherings are not allowed.”
Ghana Police Service
However, the Police Service cautioned that, the hosting of any carnival; festival, beach gathering, street dances, procession, parades and other events will be illegal. The service added that, as the President’s directive indicates, night clubs, cinemas are banned from opening.
“All activities of ‘closed room’ bar or pub including those in hotels remain illegal. However, open air drinking spot may operate provided that they observe all other COVID-19 protocols.”
Ghana Police Service
Tourist Sites to open to public
According to the GPS, operators of tourist sites and attractions may open to the public, provided they ensure the wearing of face masks, social distancing and enhanced hygiene by all patrons. Also, it reminded the public of the fact that holding a mass funeral was illegal.
Moreover, the Service said certain facilities at the Police Hospital would close within the Easter period to make way for fumigation by GHS.
“The Police Administration therefore appeals to other health facilities in the Greater Accra region to accept health issues or emergencies which would have otherwise been sent to the Police Hospital by Police Officers or patriotic citizens.”
Ghana Police Service
It then cautioned that, plain clothes and uniformed officers will be deployed to monitor compliance and take necessary actions. This, the statement said, will be against those who do not comply with the outlined measures.
The Service then encouraged the public to continue to be vigilant and report all criminal activities to the nearest police station. It then appealed to the public to cooperate to ensure a peaceful holiday season.
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