Police obtain plaudits for lowering ‘landguardism’ in portions of Greater Accra   – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

Recent reports from the Ghana Police Service have highlighted a significant decline in landguardism across several Greater Accra communities. The Police Anti‑Land Guard Unit, led by Supt. Nafiu Shittu, has been praised for its intelligence‑driven patrols, rapid response to distress calls, and sustained enforcement actions. This article unpacks the key developments, examines the operational strategies that have driven the results, and offers practical guidance for residents, policymakers, and security stakeholders who wish to replicate this success.

Key Points

Background

Understanding Landguardism in Ghana

Landguardism refers to informal, often armed, groups that enforce unofficial land‑ownership claims, sometimes resorting to intimidation, property damage, or violence. Historically, such activities have been prevalent in urban peripheries of Accra where formal land registration is weak and customary claims intersect with modern development pressures.

Historical Context of Affected Communities

Neighbourhoods like Asalaja and Oyarifa have long been contested zones where multiple families stake overlapping claims. Prior to targeted police interventions, these areas experienced frequent skirmishes, property invasions, and a climate of fear that hampered economic activity and social cohesion.

Formation of the Police Anti‑Land Guard Unit

The Anti‑Land Guard Unit was established as a specialised division within the Ghana Police Service to address the unique security dynamics of land‑related conflicts. Headed by Supt. Nafiu Shittu, the unit draws on expertise in community policing, forensic investigation, and conflict resolution to operate where conventional policing models fall short.

Analysis

Strategic Pillars of the Anti‑Land Guard Approach

Four interlocking pillars have defined the unit’s operational strategy:

1. Intelligence‑Led Operations – Leveraging local informants and data analytics to predict flashpoints.
2. Sustained Visible Presence – Deploying patrols on a rotating basis to maintain deterrence without over‑policing.
3. Rapid Response Mechanisms – Equipping officers with mobile communication tools to address distress calls within minutes.
4. Community Collaboration – Engaging traditional authorities and resident associations to mediate disputes before they erupt.

Impact Measurement and Verification

Police statistics released in late 2024 indicate a 30‑percent reduction in recorded land‑guard incidents across the targeted districts compared with the same period in 2023. Independent civil‑society monitors have corroborated these figures, noting decreased court filings related to land intimidation and a noticeable improvement in public perception surveys.

Legal Framework Supporting Police Action

Ghana’s Land Title Act and Criminal Code provide the statutory basis for police intervention in land‑related offences. The Anti‑Land Guard Unit operates within these laws, ensuring that detentions, searches, and prosecutions respect due process and constitutional safeguards. This legal alignment reinforces the legitimacy of the unit’s actions and mitigates potential accusations of overreach.

Challenges Remaining

Despite the progress, several obstacles persist:

• Incomplete land registration data that hampers precise mapping of disputes.
• Entrenched customary practices that resist formal legal processes.
• Resource constraints faced by the unit as demand for services expands.

Practical Advice

For Residents and Community Leaders

1. Report Incidents Promptly – Use the police’s dedicated land‑guard hotline or mobile app to log any intimidation or violence.

2. Participate in Mediation Sessions – Collaborate with local chiefs and police mediators to resolve disputes before they escalate.

3. Promote Legal Land Documentation – Encourage neighbours to obtain official title deeds or survey reports to reduce ambiguity.

For Municipal Planners and Policy Makers

1. Integrate Land‑Mapping Technologies – Adopt GIS tools to create up‑to‑date cadastral maps that inform policing priorities.

2. Allocate Dedicated Funding – Support the Anti‑Land Guard Unit with logistical resources such as patrol vehicles and communication equipment.

3. Facilitate Public Awareness Campaigns – Educate citizens about legal land‑ownership processes and the dangers of vigilante enforcement.

For Security Professionals

1. Adopt Intelligence‑Sharing Platforms – Connect with other law‑enforcement agencies to exchange real‑time threat data.

2. Train in De‑Escalation Techniques – Emphasise non‑violent conflict resolution to maintain community trust.

3. Monitor Human‑Rights Compliance – Implement internal audits to ensure all operations adhere to Ghanaian legal standards.

FAQ

Conclusion

The recent commendations afforded to the Ghana Police Service’s Anti‑Land Guard Unit illustrate how targeted, intelligence‑based policing can effectively mitigate landguardism in volatile urban locales. By maintaining a visible yet measured presence, fostering community partnerships, and adhering to legal standards, the unit has not only lowered violence but also restored confidence among residents of Asalaja, Oyarifa, Ablekuma, Baatsona, and surrounding areas. The lessons learned — particularly the importance of data‑driven strategies, rapid response, and collaborative mediation — offer a replicable blueprint for other regions confronting similar land‑related security challenges. Continued investment in resources, legal frameworks, and community education will be essential to sustain these gains and extend the model to broader national contexts.