Akufo-Addo declares war on criminals in Independence Day address

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has declared that "miscreants" will no longer have the space to terrorize citizens and generate a sense of insecurity in the country.

According to him, the current security challenges in the country are unacceptable and he will work to ensure that Ghanaian citizens remain safe.

He said all the plans of the government to develop the country will come to nought if there is no peace in the country.

In an address on the theme "Ghana Beyond Aid" marking Ghana's 61st Independence Anniversary in Accra, Akufo-Addo said a conducive, business-friendly and peaceful environment was key to attracting private sector environment.

"Key to attracting private sector investment is a conducive, business-friendly and peaceful environment," Akufo Addo said after witnessing a march pass by students and members of the national security services.

"My dear fellow Ghanaian all these plans and big dreams I have outlined will come to nought if we do not have peace in our country, the primary requirement for prosperity is peace.

"The first obligation any government is to ensure the safety and security of the citizenry. As your President, this is an obligation I accept and I am determined to discharge faithfully.

"The recent spate of armed robberies is totally unacceptable, I will work to ensure that citizens are able to go along their daily duties in the confidence that they are safe. No miscreant will have the space to terrorize citizens and generate a sense of insecurity in our country".

Akufo-Addo also gave the assurance that the number of police officers will soon be rapidly increased to match the increasing population levels in the country.

"The Police have the primary responsibility of maintaining peace and keeping law and order in our society and in exceptional cases with the backing of the armed forces," he stated.

"The government is doing and will do whatever it takes to enable the police to discharge their duties effectively. We are providing the means for them to modernise their equipment and learn modern methods of policing and their numbers would be rapidly increased to match our growing population and the sophistication and audacity of the criminals".

He also urged all Ghanaian communities to assist the Police in maintaining the peace of the country in order for the country not to lose its reputation as a haven of peace and security.