The President of the Association of Bullion Operators Ghana (ABOG), Alhaji Iddi Sumaila, has announced that an impressive fleet of approximately 150 armoured bullion vans will be ready for deployment by banks starting July 1, 2023.
This revelation comes in the wake of a harrowing incident where a group of armed robbers targeted a bullion van at a petrol station in Ablekuma, Greater Accra, resulting in the tragic death of a police officer.
Alhaji Iddi Sumaila revealed that several banks have already entered into contracts with the association, solidifying their commitment to utilizing these fortified vehicles.
“By the 1st of July [2023], we will witness banks using armoured vehicles/bullion vans. However, some banks are still in the process of finalizing their agreements with us,” Alhaji Sumaila stated during an interview with a prominent Accra-based radio station.
Highlighting the scale of preparedness, he added, “We currently have approximately 150 bullion vans in the country, and most banks have signed contracts with us for their deployment.”
Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Alhaji Sumaila pledged that prompt action would be taken to ensure that all banks have access to armoured bullion vans from the beginning of the upcoming month.
In the meantime, the police have initiated investigations in pursuit of apprehending the culprits responsible for the audacious robbery.
“The police are actively engaged in a manhunt to capture the gang of four robbers who attacked the bullion van at Ablekuma Fanmilk, a suburb of Accra, resulting in the unfortunate demise of the police escort,” stated an official police statement.
The statement further expressed condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of our deceased colleague, as well as all members of the Police Service. We assure the public that we will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice.”
The move to introduce armoured bullion vans marks a significant step towards bolstering the security measures employed by Ghanaian banks, underscoring their commitment to ensuring the safety of personnel and assets during cash transportation operations.