Operators of pubs and drinking spots within the Anyinam enclave of Obuasi have installed Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras as part of enhanced security measures introduced following a fatal shooting incident that occurred during the Christmas festive season last year.
The Obuasi Municipal Police Commander, DSP Francis Ekoh, disclosed this while addressing members of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly during the First Ordinary Meeting of the Third Session of the Eighth Assembly.
CCTV Installation Part of Security Recommendations
According to DSP Ekoh, the installation of CCTV cameras formed part of a series of recommendations made to pub operators after the incident, which claimed the life of a patron at a drinking spot in Anyinam.
He explained that the surveillance systems are intended to support crime prevention efforts and assist law enforcement agencies in identifying and tracking suspects in the event of future criminal activities.
“The cameras will provide vital evidence to support investigations and improve the ability of the Police to apprehend offenders,” he stated.
Regional Police Command Takes Over Investigation
The Police Commander was responding to questions from Assembly Members who sought an update on investigations into the shooting incident.
DSP Ekoh informed the House that the case docket had been transferred to the Ashanti South Regional Police Command at Bekwai for further investigations.
He disclosed that several suspects connected to the incident had already been arrested and were assisting the Police with ongoing investigations.
Assembly Members Question Transfer of Case
Some Assembly Members expressed concern over the decision to transfer the case from Obuasi to the Regional Police Command and sought clarification on the rationale behind the move.
In response, DSP Ekoh explained that the transfer was in line with established Police procedures, particularly in cases of a serious and sensitive nature that require additional investigative resources and oversight.
He assured members that the transfer would not affect the progress of investigations and that the Police remained committed to ensuring justice for the victim and his family.
Background to the Incident
The shooting incident occurred during the Christmas festive season in 2025 when a man was shot dead at a pub in Anyinam under circumstances believed to be linked to gang-related activities.
Following the incident, the Police moved swiftly to prevent possible reprisals and maintain public order by temporarily closing down pubs and drinking spots across the municipality.
Subsequently, a committee comprising security agencies and other stakeholders engaged operators of the affected facilities to review security arrangements and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences.
Among the key recommendations was the installation of CCTV cameras at pubs and drinking spots, a directive which operators have since complied with.
The Police Command has expressed optimism that the new security measures, coupled with increased collaboration between business operators and law enforcement agencies, will help improve public safety and reduce crime within the municipality.
Story by
Ernest Kofi Offen
Municipal Information Officer
(ISD, Obuasi)