Police ensure security for concerned citizens against galamsey protest

The Ghana Police Service has assured the public of adequate security measures and the maintenance of law and order during the planned protest by a group called Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey.
The protest is set to take place daily from October 3 to 5, 2024, in Accra.
In a statement signed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi, Director of Public Affairs, the police confirmed receiving notification from the group on September 26, 2024.
The group plans a peaceful procession from Okponglo, Legon, to Independence Square.
The police outlined the agreed route for the demonstration, starting from Okponglo, near the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, as the gathering point.
The procession will move through key locations, including the Okponglo Traffic Light, Shiashie/Ghana Standard Authority Traffic Light, Shangrila, the Airport Traffic Light, and the National Service Secretariat.
The route continues past the Kawukudi Traffic Intersection, along Kanda Highway, past Ridge Hospital, the AU Roundabout, Parliament House, and Osu Cemetery, ending at the Accra Sports Stadium car park.
The police reminded the organizers of their responsibilities under the Public Order Act, stressing that they would be held accountable for any damages to public property.
The police emphasized that participants must comply with police instructions to ensure smooth traffic flow and maintain overall public order.
Under the Public Order Act, participants are required to avoid obstructing traffic or causing disorder.
The statement further highlighted that the police are empowered to disperse crowds if there is a reasonable belief that a breach of the peace is imminent or ongoing, in order to prevent violence and restore order.
Additionally, the police may close streets or sections of roads to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic and set up barriers as necessary to maintain public order during the demonstration.
The protest, organized by Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey, seeks to raise awareness and demand stronger government action against illegal mining, which has caused significant environmental damage across the country.