In light of the proposed shift towards a 24-hour economy in Ghana, Security Analyst Adib Saani has emphasized the critical need to address potential security loopholes. Saani highlighted the necessity of doubling the country’s Police Force to effectively manage the challenges that might arise with the implementation of this innovative economic model.
Presently, Ghana’s police-to-citizen ratio stands at around 1 officer per 900 citizens, falling short of the recommended UN standard of 1 officer for every 500 citizens. To meet the demands of a 24-hour economy, Saani stressed the urgency of bolstering the police force to ensure the proper handling of emerging security issues.
During an appearance on Citi TV’s news analysis program, ‘The Big Issue,’ Saani proposed a shift towards electronic transactions to counter the risks associated with carrying substantial amounts of cash at night. He highlighted the increased likelihood of robbery attacks in marketplaces, trading centers, and businesses operating during nighttime hours. Emphasizing the importance of electronic transactions, Saani noted that they could offer a safer alternative in these scenarios.
However, Saani also cautioned about potential vulnerabilities that might arise from the increased reliance on electronic transactions. He expressed concerns about the heightened risk of scams and urged Ghanaians to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity measures to protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent activities.