An ASP, DSP not able to lead the SWAT unit – admits the regional commander of Accra

General News of Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Source: citinewsroom.com

2019-02-19

DCOP Patrick Adusei Sarpong, commander of the Accra Regional Police, told the Emile Short Commission that an officer with the rank of DSP or ASP was not qualified to lead the SWAT national security team .

"In the current state of things, do you think that being headed to this level by a recently promoted ASP or DSP is adequate?" Asked Professor Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, a member of the committee.

DCOP Sarpong's answer was "I do not think so"

The commander of the Accra Regional Police also suggested that "a senior officer [should] to be in charge if there is still the need to maintain [DSP Samuel Azugu] The."

His observations highlighted a lack of coordination in sensitive positions within Ghanaian security agencies.

The Emile Short Commission is investigating the violence that occurred at the La Bawaleshi voting center during the partial election of Ayawaso West Wuogon.

DCOP Sarpong's comments follow the appearance of the SWAT National Security Team Commander, Samuel Azugu, before the commission.

Many Ghanaians were shocked by DSP's testimony and described it as inconsistent and sowed with lies.

Former Inspector General of Police and member of the Emile Short commission, Patrick K. Acheampong questioned the planning and tactics of the SWAT team for national security on the basis of information provided by DSP Azugu on Monday.

Mr. Acheampong was also concerned that the SWAT unit had been misused and ordered because the Azugu DSP had admitted that it had not received sufficient information for an operation on the day of the by-election.

"From now on, do not sit down like [that], excuse me for saying, the group; they should not be used as zombies – whoever comes to give orders and you leave. You do not even know the risk involved. "