IGP bans police leave for Operation Disaster Free Christmas
Ghana’s Inspector General of Police has issued a directive banning all police leave for the duration of Operation Disaster Free Christmas, a coordinated security effort aimed at preventing crime and ensuring public safety during the festive season. The order is being implemented as part of a broader strategy to deploy officers in high visibility patrols across the country.
According to the IGP’s office the decision to suspend leave is based on detailed threat assessments for the holiday period. Previous years have seen spikes in petty crime road traffic accidents and other security challenges as citizens travel home to celebrate Christmas and New Year. The IGP made it clear that the police force must be fully manned and ready at all hours to respond to incidents quickly.
Under the operation police divisions will boost patrol presence in major cities residential areas commercial centres and transport hubs. Additional resources including rapid response teams checkpoints and specialized units will be deployed in high risk zones. The goal is to reassure the public and reduce the opportunity for criminal activity by maintaining a strong and visible police presence.
Community policing leaders have welcomed the directive insisting that strong security during the festive season can save lives and property. They argue that when citizens feel safe they are more likely to travel and celebrate without fear. Local leaders are also calling on residents to support the effort by reporting suspicious activity and cooperating with law enforcement.
In addition to street patrols the IGP said the police will work closely with other security agencies and local authorities to coordinate road safety campaigns traffic enforcement and public awareness. There will also be community outreach aimed at educating people on protecting themselves and their property during holiday gatherings.
Critics of the ban however warn that drawing in too many officers may leave gaps in other policing areas such as crime prevention and investigative work. They argue that while festive security is crucial the police must balance it with their other responsibilities so that broader public safety goals are not compromised.
Professional associations within the police have been asked to monitor the welfare of officers working long hours during the operation. The IGP has stated that rest rotations and support services will be provided to prevent fatigue and ensure efficiency. He indicated that commanding officers will be accountable for the health and readiness of their teams.
As preparations intensify many Ghanaians have responded positively on social media, saying that strong policing now will make the festive period safer for families. Some business owners have expressed relief that security will be tight in areas where shops and markets are a hive of activity at this time of year.
With the leave ban now in place and operational plans underway, the police have sent a clear message: security during the festive season is not to be taken lightly. The IGP’s focus on readiness, visibility and community support aims to make this Christmas safer for all Ghanaian citizens.
