Police announce toll-free number for reporting suspicious election-related activity  

The Ghana Police Service has introduced a dedicated toll-free number, 0800311311, for citizens to report any suspicious election-related activities during the presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 7.  

This initiative aims to bolster public safety and ensure a peaceful electoral process as Ghanaians head to the polls to elect the nation’s leadership for the next four years. 

The hotline serves as a proactive measure to address concerns in areas identified as potential election flashpoints, where tensions have been rising.  

In a notice on social media, the Police Service emphasised its commitment to maintaining peace:  "Suspicious Activity? Let’s Act Together! Dial 0800311311 to alert us and protect all. Your report matters for a peaceful Election 2024."

Ensuring media safety and collaboration

Meanwhile, the Police Administration has also outlined measures to enhance the safety of journalists covering the elections and facilitate their work. Among these are the deployment of two plainclothes officers to media organisations nationwide, a dedicated communication line for journalists, and the establishment of a National Security Taskforce Press Briefing Centre.  

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr George Akuffo Dampare highlighted these measures during an engagement with media editors at the Police Headquarters in Accra last month.  

"We know the critical role that you are playing in this country and how vital it is during this election. We are concerned about your safety," Dr Dampare said, assuring journalists of the Police Service’s commitment to creating an environment where they can work without fear.  

The Press Briefing Centre, described as a tent with a capacity for 100 reporters, will operate around the clock, providing journalists with a space to relax and receive real-time updates from the police.  

Combating misinformation 

Dr Dampare stressed the importance of tackling misinformation and disinformation during the election period. He urged the media to verify information thoroughly before publication:  "Please let’s be patient. Check with us or any relevant institution before putting information out. That would save a lot of lives."

He added that once people realised the media would cross-check information, they would be less likely to disseminate false claims.  

Stakeholder collaboration  

The IGP commended the media and other stakeholders for their support in ensuring a peaceful election, describing the collaboration as vital to Ghana’s democratic process.  

"Without the media, the equation of ensuring that our democratic dispensation becomes the envy of others would not be realised. We hold you in high esteem," he said.