Ashanti Region: “Big men” obstructing illegal siren arrests — MTTD

The Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service in the Ashanti Region has expressed concern over persistent interference in the enforcement of road traffic regulations, particularly regarding the arrest of individuals unlawfully using sirens in unauthorised vehicles.

The department emphasised that the use of sirens is strictly regulated and reserved for approved emergency and security services, including the National Ambulance Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, and other designated state security agencies.

However, increasing abuse by private individuals and unauthorised vehicles is creating confusion on the roads and posing significant safety risks.

Speaking to Citi News, ASP Awudu Abdul Razak of the Central Police Command’s MTTD Accident Unit said officers often face pressure from influential figures who allegedly intervene to secure the release of offenders arrested for illegal installation and use of sirens.

“The big men normally do that. You arrest the offender and a call will come in and you can’t refuse the directive. You may refuse their directive and they can decide not to take action against you for now. They wait until you forget about it.

“I had a similar experience where I arrested a chief. He told me I had disgraced him and that he would ensure I was transferred. I wasn’t surprised. Three days later I was transferred to a village,” he recounted.

CitiNewsRoom