Police roll out advanced security measures for Akwatia by-election

The Ghana Police Service has rolled out advanced security measures to ensure maximum safety during the Akwatia by-election on September 2, 2025.

Speaking at a press briefing in Akwatia on Friday, the Director General of Operations, COP Dr. Vance Baba, said the advanced security measures will include CCTV cameras, drones, and body-worn cameras to monitor activities across the constituency.

He explained that these steps are part of strategies to guarantee a peaceful and transparent Akwatia by-election.

According to the police, the advanced security measures will provide real-time updates from all polling stations to enable rapid response to any incidents. Dr. Baba added that over 600 specially trained personnel have also been deployed to maintain order and ensure safety throughout the Akwatia by-election.

Reaffirming earlier directives from the Inspector General of Police, COP Dr. Baba confirmed the deployment of the Black Maria, a specialised vehicle meant to detain individuals who attempt to cause violence or disrupt the voting process. “When you see the Black Maria around, don’t be afraid – provided you are not going to cause any confusion or violence during this electoral process,” the police cautioned.

To maintain neutrality at polling stations, the police announced that security escorts assigned to candidates will not be allowed inside voting centres. They will instead be stationed at least 100 metres away and will only accompany their candidates when necessary, after which they must return outside the restricted area.

The police also cautioned the public and the media against spreading misinformation during the Akwatia by-election. A dedicated command centre will be set up to assist journalists and voters in verifying information. “It is very important that the media and those on social media cross-check facts before publication. This will help us sanitise the media space and ensure only accurate information is shared,” officials stressed.

Furthermore, the police clarified that the military will remain on standby and will only be called in if their assistance becomes necessary.

The Ghana Police Service urged residents and voters in Akwatia to remain calm and turn out in their numbers, assuring them of maximum protection before, during, and after the Akwatia by-election.