The Ashanti Regional Police Command has announced a comprehensive and aggressive traffic enforcement strategy to curb reckless driving and reduce road crashes as the country enters the busy Christmas season.
With the yuletide historically associated with spikes in road accidents, the Police say this year’s operations will be heavily focused on prevention, visibility, and strict law enforcement.
Speaking on the Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9 FM in Kumasi on Thursday, December 4, 2025, the Manhyia Divisional Commander of the Motor Traffic and Transport Division (MTTD), Superintendent Mary Affanyi, reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to saving lives during the festive period.
“We don’t wait for Christmas to act. The Police structure is built on prevention,” she emphasized.
More Patrols, More Cameras, More Arrests
Supt. Affanyi announced that the Police will deploy additional patrol teams, evidence-gathering equipment, and enhanced foot and mobile patrols across major highways and urban centres.
Drivers found engaging in drunk driving, excessive speeding, or other forms of reckless behaviour will be arrested and processed for court without hesitation.
“As we enter the yuletide, you will see heightened Police presence on the streets and corners. Offenders… will be processed for court,” she stated.
The increased deployment will coincide with joint operations involving the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) to collectively reduce crashes.
Heavy Traffic, Masquerade Parades Expected to Complicate Movement
The Ashanti Region, particularly Kumasi, is expected to witness intense vehicular and human traffic due to commercial activities, festive gatherings, and the traditional masquerade groups that parade major streets during Christmas.
Supt. Affanyi noted that these activities often contribute to road traffic challenges, urging drivers to exercise caution and patience.
She revealed that the Police have mapped out accident-prone areas within the metropolis and are actively educating drivers at major terminals to increase awareness.
She warned that no errant driver will be spared this season.
Traffic Congestion to Worsen With Influx of Foreigners
Contributing to the discussion, the Asokwa Divisional Commander of the MTTD, ASP Prince Kaar Dammir, highlighted the expected rise in congestion due to increased movement of people and vehicles, including visitors returning for Christmas.
“Most cities experience heavy congestion during Christmas and New Year, and this year’s situation could worsen due to the influx of foreigners,” he said.
He disclosed that the Police Service headquarters has circulated a detailed traffic management plan for operational rollout across all divisions.
Police Presence Will Be Unavoidable
ASP Dammir assured the public that the Police will maintain a strong presence throughout the festive season, both on foot and mobile patrols, to manage traffic and respond swiftly to emergencies.
“You’ll see a lot of Police officers patrolling both on foot and in cars. Traffic junctions will be saturated with officers because we know the traffic stream will heighten,” he added.
He explained that alongside routine road users, many unusual and unfamiliar road users will be navigating the city during the celebrations, increasing the need for vigilance.
Call for Media and Community Support
The Police Command is appealing to media houses, community institutions, and civil society groups to intensify road safety education and complement enforcement efforts.
“We expect strong media collaboration to amplify safety awareness,” Supt. Affanyi stated.
