The Mayor of Kumasi, Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, has announced strict measures to curb traffic indiscipline and alleged bribery involving law enforcement officers (police in particular) operating within the Kumasi Metropolitan Area.
Speaking during a media interaction, the mayor disclosed that a high-level meeting had been held with officials from Metro Roads Engineering, the Head of Transport, the Assembly’s Convenor for Transport, the KMA Chief Executive, and the original police commander re-sponsible for traffic enforcement in the metropolis.
According to Mr. Boadi, the meeting clearly outlined expectations for traffic officers, particularly regarding illegal loading and parking activities that continue to choke major roads in the city.
“We identified three specific areas where we do not want to see any loading or parking at all,” the mayor said. “These include the stretch from Costa Pharmacy to the roundabout in front of the Ontario Hospital, as well as the entire area around the NTL roundabout.”
He stressed that enforcement in these zones must be uncompromising, noting that persistent violations contribute to congestion and undermine public confidence in law enforcement.
The mayor also acknowledged that the police commander shared concerns during the meet-ing, some of which would require collaboration with other agencies to address.
“Those issues that fall within our mandate, we will work on them. Where other agencies are involved, we will engage them,” he said.
However, Mr. Boadi expressed deep concern over the conduct of some Police officers on traffic duty, describing current practices as damaging to the image of the police service.
“What we are seeing now is an embarrassment to the police in this city,” he stated. “This year, we want enforcement to be done in a way that does not bring shame to the service.”
As part of efforts to strengthen discipline and enforcement, the mayor announced plans to increase the number of military personnel attached to the KMA from six to about 12.
“These officers will support enforcement where necessary,” he said. “If negotiations fail and offenders refuse to comply, we will take firm action.”
The move follows public complaints about alleged indiscipline and open bribery involving drivers and traffic offenders during enforcement operations.
Mr. Boadi said the assembly is determined to implement the agreed measures this year to restore order on Kumasi’s roads and ensure professionalism among enforcement officers.
“We have agreed among ourselves that this year, these measures will be implemented,” he said.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
