The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has announced a renewed government push to curb the rising incidence of motorbike snatching and armed robberies, particularly within major market centres across the region.
Addressing journalists at the first press soiree of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Regional Minister disclosed that a series of coordinated security interventions are being rolled out to restore public safety and protect livelihoods in affected communities.
According to Mr. Atanga, areas such as Talensi, Zaare, Vea and Soe have been identified as hotspots for recent criminal activities, prompting intensified collaboration between security agencies and local stakeholders.
He explained that the government’s response goes beyond traditional policing, adopting a dual approach that blends enhanced security operations with active community participation. Central to this strategy is the formation and activation of *market security committees, designed to work closely with law enforcement agencies in monitoring suspicious activities and sharing timely intelligence.
“We are actively addressing criminal activities, including motorbike snatching and market robberies, through coordinated security interventions and community engagement, particularly the strengthening of market security committees,” Mr. Atanga stated.
The Regional Minister stressed that markets remain the economic lifeline of many communities in the Upper East Region and must be adequately protected to ensure the safety of traders and customers alike. He noted that involving market women, traders, transport operators and traditional leaders in security efforts would significantly enhance intelligence gathering and early detection of criminal threats.
Mr. Atanga further assured residents that the government remains committed to restoring confidence in public spaces and will continue to work with the Ghana Police Service and other security agencies to sustain peace and order across the region.
He called on the public to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that collective responsibility is critical to winning the fight against crime and ensuring safer communities in the Upper East Region.
Source: BlueWaves Radio 93.7 FM/ Maurice Duncan
