The Member of Parliament for Karaga, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, has expressed concern over the government’s decision to withdraw the use of the “Black Maria” police patrol vehicles, arguing that the move is contributing to the rising incidence of drug abuse and other criminal activities across the country.
Speaking during a parliamentary debate on security and public safety, the former Finance Minister said the removal of the specialized police vehicles has weakened law enforcement’s ability to carry out effective patrols and swiftly transport suspects, particularly those involved in drug-related offences.
According to Dr. Amin Adam, the absence of the vehicles has reduced the visibility of police operations, making it easier for drug peddlers and criminal networks to operate without fear of immediate arrest.
He argued that the “Black Maria” vehicles played a critical role in maintaining law and order by enabling police officers to conduct routine patrols, respond rapidly to incidents and transport arrested suspects safely.
The Karaga MP urged the government to reconsider its decision and provide the Ghana Police Service with adequate logistics to strengthen the fight against narcotics trafficking and other forms of crime.
He stressed that improving police mobility and operational capacity is essential to addressing the growing threat of drug abuse, particularly among the youth.
The comments have sparked debate over the effectiveness of recent policing reforms, with some security analysts agreeing that law enforcement agencies require better logistical support, while others argue that addressing drug abuse also requires stronger community education, rehabilitation programmes and intelligence-led policing.
The government has maintained that it remains committed to enhancing national security through improved policing strategies and the provision of modern equipment to security agencies.
Observers say the discussion highlights the broader challenge of balancing policing reforms with the need to ensure law enforcement officers have the resources required to effectively combat crime.
