Omanghana
The Ghana Police Service has intensified security operations ahead of the Homowo Festival, warning that criminal activity and violence will not be tolerated during the celebrations.
The Tema and Accra regional police commands have deployed specialized teams to maintain law and order across the Greater Accra Region. The operation is intended to prevent clashes between rival traditional factions and stop criminal groups from taking advantage of large festival gatherings.
Tema Regional Police Commander DCOP Eric Asamoah Asiedu said the festive atmosphere would not provide cover for unlawful conduct. Police personnel have been directed to arrest and prosecute anyone found disturbing the peace, possessing illegal weapons or threatening public safety.
Security agencies have identified the traditional sprinkling of kpokpoi, also known as kpekple, as a potential source of conflict. Disagreements over which chief or traditional faction has the legitimate authority to perform the ritual have previously resulted in confrontations in some communities.
Long-standing chieftaincy and land disputes are also receiving close attention. Police are monitoring rival traditional groups, suspected landguards and organized youth groups that could attempt to disrupt public processions or provoke localized disturbances.
As part of the security arrangements, specialized task forces have been formed in collaboration with the Ga Traditional Council to manage crowds, traditional processions and other major festival activities.
Armed mobile patrol teams have also been stationed at strategic locations across the Tema Metropolis and other high-risk areas. These units are expected to respond quickly to reports of violence, weapon possession or disorderly conduct.
Following previous fatal clashes in communities including Sowutuom, police have begun intelligence-led operations to identify suspected instigators, retrieve illegal weapons and prevent planned attacks before major public events begin.
The Greater Accra Regional Security Council has also incorporated flood preparedness into the wider security plan because the festival coincides with the rainy season. Emergency teams are paying particular attention to flood-prone communities such as Odawna Sahara and Adabraka.
Residents and visitors have been urged to respect traditional customs, remain vigilant and report suspicious activities or individuals carrying illegal weapons to the police.
Authorities have assured the public that adequate measures have been introduced to protect lives, preserve the cultural importance of Homowo and ensure that the festival is celebrated peacefully.
Source: Omanghana
