The Ghana Police Service is seeing to the construction of a new ward complex at the Police Hospital in Accra. On Monday, August 11, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, accompanied by members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), was present at a sod-cutting ceremony for the project.

The project is aimed at providing a dedicated, comfortable space for police personnel, their families, and retired officers requiring medical care. The ward complex will cater not only for officers in active service but also for retired personnel, recognising that many retirees face greater health challenges and require more support. The project is designed to also serve the wider police family as well as the general public, offering a space that promotes comfort and healing.

The Police Administration is initiating the project with available resources. The Service is also appealing to individuals, corporate institutions, and the general public to support the initiative.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police explained that the idea for the facility emerged after a visit to a colleague on admission at the hospital revealed the need for additional, well-equipped accommodation.

Christian Tetteh Yohuno expressed optimism that the completion of the ward complex will enhance the health and longevity of police personnel and their families. He called on all well-meaning Ghanaians and organisations to partner with the Police Service in delivering this important facility.

So far this year, the Ghana Police Service has recorded massive investment by the government to aid its work and provide a more conducive space for its personnel.

In May this year, Minister for Interior Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak and Inspector General of Police COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno commissioned two new police stations—Borteyman Police Station and UPSA Police Station.

“This police station is a testament to our dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” the minister stated at the commissioning of the UPSA Police Station.

The police stations serve as a vital hub for police operations and community engagement, enabling officers to respond swiftly to challenges and work closely with residents to address security concerns.

The Vice Chancellor of UPSA, Prof. John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor expressed gratitude to the government and the Ghana Police Service for the partnership in putting up the police station. He noted that the facility will enhance the safety and security of students, staff, and visitors and will contribute to a conducive learning environment.

The Minister called on residents to partner with the police, share information, and work together to foster a culture of safety and peace. He also charged the officers serving at the station to engage with the community, listen to their concerns, and serve with dedication and respect.

In an unrelated event, the Ghana Police Hospital on Monday, August 11, conducted a mass burial for 300 unclaimed bodies deposited in the hospital’s morgue.

In a statement signed by Public Affairs Officer C/Inspr. Faustina Afia Nunekpeku, the hospital noted that the unidentified and unclaimed bodies are made up of paupers, unknown former patients, abandoned dead bodies, and accident and crime victims.

“This solemn task is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the deceased are laid to rest with dignity in line with public health guidelines,” a part of the statement issued read.

Members of the general public were informed to contact the pathology department of the police hospital for identification of persons who might not have been seen for some time.

The hospital noted that the occurrence of such unclaimed bodies is a reminder of the importance of proper identification. It entreated all and sundry to be vigilant in safeguarding personal details, especially when traveling or engaging in daily activities.

In light of this, the Ghana Police Hospital issued a number of preventive measures to avoid falling into the category of unknown deceased persons.

These include always carrying an identification. The police noted that regardless of age or location, one must have their national identification or that of any organization on them to help the police or others easily identify them whenever they are involved in any crisis.

Members of the general public have been entreated to share emergency contact information with close family and friends.

“These contacts can be used to reach out in case of a medical emergency or any unforeseen incident. For those who live alone, we advise keeping a list of emergency contact in easily accessible places,” the statement noted.

Also, the hospital urged the public to stay abreast of the legal and safety requirements in the country. The hospital stated that there is the need to “always keep updated on local guidelines regarding health, safety and public transport, particularly in rural or less-patrolled areas where emergency services may be delayed.”

Furthermore, the Ghana Police Hospital advocated for families and friends to make a collective effort to “maintain regular communication and keep records of loved ones whereabouts particularly the elderly, minors and individuals with mental health challenges who may be more vulnerable to disappearing without trace.”

“..we believe that this serves as a reminder to all of us about the importance of securing our identification and taking necessary precautions for our safety. We urge the general public to adhere to these messages to ensure their safety and prevent such unfortunate incident,” it added.