President Mahama Hands Over 40 Armoured Vehicles to Police, Pledges Stronger National Security

President John Dramani Mahama has presented 40 operational vehicles to the Ghana Police Service, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protect citizens and strengthen national security.

Speaking at the handover ceremony at the Police Headquarters in Accra, the President said the procurement reflects the government’s pledge to retool and modernise all security agencies so officers are fully equipped for frontline duties.

“By handing over these 40 advanced armoured vehicles, we are renewing our covenant with the people of Ghana. This nation will protect its citizens; peace will be defended; and Ghana will remain secure, stable and just,” President Mahama stated.

The event was attended by the Minister of the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, the Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, senior officers of the Police Service, and representatives of other security agencies.

Details of the Fleet

The new fleet includes 15 armoured pickups, five Cobra-4 vehicles, and 20 Cobra-3 special armoured units designed for high-risk environments, rough terrain and rapid response operations. The vehicles, the President noted, are “operational tools, not symbols”.

Issuing a strong warning to criminal networks, President Mahama said Ghana would not cede any street or public space to lawbreakers. He added that the state and its security services stand ready to respond decisively to anyone who threatens public safety.

Ensuring Officer Safety

The President emphasised that officer safety remains a central priority. He linked past fatalities to inadequate equipment and pledged that such situations would not be repeated.

“Too often, we have lost men in the line of duty because we send them on missions without the appropriate equipment. That is going to be a thing of the past,” he said, assuring officers that government will supply the tools they need to return safely to their families.

He revealed that the 40 vehicles form only the first batch of new resources, with two tow trucks, 10 covert Corvette operational vehicles and a pickup for every police district expected soon. Plans are also underway to train a dedicated police detachment to operate drones for surveillance and intelligence gathering.

While prioritising operational strength, President Mahama stressed that accountability and public trust must be upheld. “The police must not only be feared by wrongdoers, but citizens must also trust the police,” he said, highlighting ongoing reforms in training, recruitment, supervision and respect for human rights.

He urged officers to handle the vehicles responsibly. “These equipment are expensive and hard to procure. Use them professionally, lawfully and ethically,” he said, commending the bravery and sacrifice of personnel nationwide.

IGP Commits to Stronger Operations

Receiving the vehicles, the Inspector General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, describing the vehicles as essential tools that will significantly strengthen the Service’s ability to protect the public.

He said the fleet will enable the Police Service to rise above emerging threats, improve officer safety and enhance operational efficiency.

The IGP cited recent successes, including the arrest of suspects who impersonated police officers. “Our response was decisive and effective, and all these suspects are currently before the court,” he said.

Mr Yohuno also announced a new phase of aggressive operations. “With these vehicles, we are going to launch very bold, robust and targeted operations throughout the country. We will dismantle any existing criminal networks,” he pledged.