of the On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, and the Health Minister, Hon. Bernard Oko-Boye, appeared before the Assurance Committee of Parliament.
They provided updates on assurances given in response to questions posed to their respective ministries in previous years.
Hon. Jinapor addressed issues related to assurances made to MPs from the Okaikoi North, Adaklu, and Prestea-Huni Valley constituencies—Hon. Theresa Lardi Awuni, Hon. Kwame Governs Agbodza, and Hon. Robert Wisdom Cudjoe, respectively.
Hon. Oko-Boye tackled eleven issues regarding assurances given by his predecessor, Hon. Agyeman Manu, to MPs from several constituencies, including Sefwi Akontombra, Sissala West, Kpandai, Atebubu-Amantin, Sekondi, Kintampo North, Tain, Salaga South, Amenfi West, Jaman South, and Daffiaman-Bussie-Issah.
During the session, the Chairman of the Assurance Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa underscored the inadequate resources available to the Achimota Police Station, which has only one pick-up and five motorbikes for patrolling the Achimota Forest.
Hon. Ablakwa emphasized the need for government support to enhance police operations.
Abu Jinapor, drawing on his background as the son of a police officer, acknowledged the challenges faced by the Achimota Police.
He stressed the need for collaboration between the Forest Commission and the police to improve their logistical support.
“I fully and 100 per cent associate myself with the sentiments being expressed here, that there is a need for us to re-tool and equip the Achimota Police personnel,” Jinapor stated.
He pledged to provide additional motorbikes and potentially an extra pick-up within a month.
Jinapor informed the Committee that the police’s surveillance capabilities had been improved with new motorbikes and other logistics, contributing to reduced crime in the area.
He also committed to enhancing street lighting around the Achimota Forest to boost security.
As Minister overseeing the Energy Ministry, Jinapor assured that he would work to ensure the Achimota Police Station receives the necessary resources to enhance patrols and deter criminal or encroachment activities in the forest.
