By Murtala Issah
The Northern Regional Police Command has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order in the region following growing public concern about security after the withdrawal of the Inspector General of Police’s special taskforce, popularly known as “Black Maria.”
At a press conference in Tamale, the Northern Regional Police Commander, DCOP Wisdom Lavoe, assured residents that the police remain fully in control of the security situation and are intensifying operations against armed robbery and illicit drug activities across the region.
According to DCOP Lavoe, the Command has, in recent weeks, recorded significant breakthroughs in its efforts to combat crime. He disclosed that police intelligence-led operations led to the dismantling of an armed robbery syndicate operating at Kpatinga, where two suspects were arrested. In a separate operation, officers also foiled an attempted robbery attack near Tampion before it could be carried out.
The Regional Commander explained that the successes demonstrate the capacity of the police to maintain security even without the presence of the special national taskforce.
“Our operations have been intensified across the region, particularly in areas where intelligence suggests criminal activities. We have made arrests and prevented several potential crimes,” he said.
Beyond robbery-related offences, the Command is also stepping up its crackdown on the illegal drug trade, which police say contributes to violent crimes and youth delinquency in parts of the region.
DCOP Lavoe indicated that several surveillance and enforcement measures have been put in place to identify and arrest individuals involved in the sale and distribution of illicit substances.
“We are actively pursuing drug peddlers within the metropolis and surrounding communities. Our objective is to ensure sanity in the region and prevent drugs from fueling criminal behaviour,” he noted.
The press briefing also addressed recent tensions in Nanton following the murder of a young man, an incident that raised concerns about local security.
The Regional Commander said the police have restored calm in the area and are currently pursuing a key suspect believed to be connected to the killing.
He assured residents that the Command is committed to ensuring justice is served and appealed to the public to assist investigators with credible information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.
The police reassurance comes at a time when sections of the public have questioned whether security could weaken following the departure of the IGP’s special taskforce, which had been deployed to the Northern Region ahead of the Christmas festivities.
The taskforce, nicknamed “Black Maria,” was tasked with reinforcing police visibility, combating armed robbery and other violent crimes, and enforcing law and order during the busy holiday period.
While some residents credited the taskforce with helping to deter criminal activities in the region, others raised concerns about its operational style. Critics accused members of the unit of adopting heavy-handed tactics and alleged instances of human rights abuses during some of their operations.
The mixed public reaction has sparked broader conversations about the balance between effective policing and the protection of civil liberties.
Security analysts say the withdrawal of such taskforces often shifts the responsibility back to regional commands to sustain the gains made during special operations. In this context, the Northern Regional Police Command’s recent operations appear aimed at demonstrating that the region’s security architecture remains intact.
DCOP Lavoe emphasised that maintaining peace and security requires collaboration between the police and the public. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the police.
He stressed that community cooperation remains one of the most effective tools in preventing crime and sustaining stability in the region.
“The police cannot work alone. We need the support of the public in providing timely information that will help us act quickly to prevent crime,” he said.
The Northern Region has, in recent years, experienced relative stability, which local authorities say is critical for economic growth and social development. Police officials believe sustaining this peace will depend on proactive policing, intelligence gathering and strong community engagement.
With operations against armed robbery networks, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities ongoing, the Regional Command says it remains determined to ensure that residents continue to live and conduct their businesses in a safe and secure environment.
