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0 Nana Yeboah Asuama, the Apesemakahene of Kenyasi No. 1 traditional area, has raised concerns over the increasing number of minors operating motorcycles and the reckless manner in which many riders use the roads.
According to him, the streets of Kenyasi, the capital and surrounding communities in the district are increasingly being dominated by motorcycles but worryingly, many of these bikes are being operated by teenagers and unlicensed riders.
The traditional leader is therefore urging the Ghana Police Service in the region to act swiftly to prevent more injuries and needless deaths.
Nana Yeboah Asuama indicated these on Friday at Kenyasi in the Ahafo region at the send-forth ceremony of Superintendent of Police Paul Ankan, the Asutifi District Commander, who is on transfer to Shama municipality in the Western region.
The Apesemakahene said it breaks his heart to see the youth, notably teenagers, riding recklessly, without helmets or any sense of safety, adding that these are children who should be in school or at home.
He noted that residents report serious injuries and even fatalities due to irresponsible riding, often involving speeding, poor judgment, and a complete disregard for traffic laws.
“Last month, a young boy crashed into a taxi. He was bleeding badly, and he didn’t even have a license. We’re living in discomfort,” Nana Yeboah Asuama lamented.
The chief is calling on the Ghana Police Service to intensify patrols, conduct checks, and arrest both underage riders and adults who allow them access to motorbikes.
Superintendent Paul Ankan, the outgoing District Commander, expressed gratitude to residents and stakeholder institutions, notably traditional authorities, Newmont, district Assemblies, religious leaders and cooperate bodies for supporting the activities of the police in the districts.
He has also admonished officers of the police service to exhibit integrity, commitment to duty, loyalty to the country and respect for humanity, noting that a good name acquired in the service is better than money.
The Police Commander entreated officers in the service, especially junior ones, to enforce laws of the country with fairness, respect and love in order to safeguard the integrity of the police service.
Superintendent Paul Ankan noted that throughout his various districts he has worked, community and stakeholder engagement, dialogue and diplomacy have been his hallmark, adding that hard work pays.
As the issue grows more urgent, community leaders and residents are hoping for a united response, and that enforcing the law could mean saving the lives of the next generation.
The call has been made and the question now is whether law enforcement will respond with the urgency the community demands.
