By Leo Nelson
Calls have intensified for the deployment of additional police personnel to Aflao, Ghana’s busiest border town, amid growing concerns over security challenges associated with increasing population growth, cross-border activities, and transnational crimes.
Traditional leaders, residents, and community stakeholders have expressed concern that the current police strength in the municipality, especially at Aflao, Ghana’s most prominent border town is inadequate to effectively police the area and respond promptly to emerging security threats.
Speaking on the issue, Senior Divisional Chief of Teshie-Aflao and Warlord (Awadada) of the Aflao Traditional Area, Torgbi Kpambi Vedzesu V, stressed the urgent need for government and the Ghana Police Service to strengthen security presence in the border community to safeguard lives and property.
According to him, Aflao’s strategic location as an international gateway linking Ghana to neighbouring Togo makes it particularly vulnerable to criminal activities such as smuggling, human trafficking, armed robbery, drug-related offences, and other cross-border crimes.
He noted that while security agencies in the municipality continue to work diligently, the growing demands on their services require a significant increase in personnel and logistical support.
“Aflao serves as one of the country’s major entry and exit points. The volume of human and vehicular traffic passing through the town daily requires a stronger security presence to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of residents and visitors,” he said.
Torgbi Vedzesu V observed that the municipality has witnessed rapid urban expansion in recent years, leading to increased pressure on existing security infrastructure.
He explained that several newly developed communities and settlements within the municipality require regular police patrols and surveillance, yet limited manpower often makes effective coverage difficult.
The traditional ruler further appealed to the Interior Ministry and the Police Administration to consider posting more officers to Aflao and providing the necessary logistics, including patrol vehicles, communication equipment, and accommodation facilities for security personnel.
Residents who spoke to the New Republic echoed the chief’s concerns, noting that enhanced police visibility would help deter criminal activities and improve public confidence in the security services.
Some residents also called for the establishment of additional police stations and posts in fast-growing communities to ensure quicker response times during emergencies.
Security analysts have long identified border communities as critical areas requiring adequate personnel and resources due to the complex nature of crimes often associated with international borders.
Observers believe that increasing police strength in Aflao would not only improve local security but also contribute significantly to national efforts aimed at combating transnational crime and protecting Ghana’s borders.
Stakeholders are therefore urging the government to prioritise security reinforcement in the municipality to ensure that residents, businesses, and travellers can continue to operate in a safe and secure environment.
