Every human being is a potential terrorist. People can change color like the chameleon once they are indoctrinated and start believing in the ideologies offered by terrorist groups. Your neighbor could be your potential enemy.

As the subregion gradually becomes a hotbed of terrorist attacks, we all need to be much more vigilant and cautious in our comings and goings. We must view the reporting of suspicious characters and their behaviors as civic patriotism.

Encourage us in communities and neighborhoods to monitor and report the movements of anyone we suspect, including our own siblings, family members and neighbors who may have gone through some form of process of radicalization or even joined terrorist organizations.

Terrorist attacks come in many forms and can happen anytime and anywhere without warning. Terrorists operate spontaneously when they think time is running out.

Terrorists typically exploit vulnerabilities and weaknesses in system or other security and may use technology, weapons, hazardous materials, biological agents or other methods to create devastating disruptions in communities, cities, villages and towns.

Terrorists have the ability to infiltrate or take over a country’s security apparatus.

Always be curious, prepared, cautious and give information when in doubt

Terrorism feeds on fear. Terrorists fear a well-informed and alert society. Although vigilance does not necessarily prevent terrorists from attacking, it can go a long way in minimizing casualties in the event of an attack.

Having a well-rehearsed contingency plan on how to deal with threats and dangers can be a big help. By planning how to respond to a terrorist attack itself, you can greatly improve your chances of survival. You can also lessen the impact of the attack by reducing the fear that follows.

In the event of a terrorist attack, you can find detailed information from local public safety agencies such as Nadmo, National Ambulance Service, and local television and radio stations.

Know your emergency numbers by heart, if possible save them on all your phones and diaries.

You should always trust and work with information from National Security and all other security agencies and paramilitary organizations.

Also contact your local police station or local emergency management agency for preparedness information.

Before an attack

Certain steps can be taken before a terrorist incident to prepare you and your family. This can include informing you about risks that could impact your community and planning how you can respond.

During an attack

If a terrorist attack occurs, it is important that you remain calm and follow the instructions of local security officials and emergency service personnel.

You need to be aware of your surroundings and watch for additional attacks, usually referred to as coordinates.

Listen to local TV and radio for directions, travel information and instructions from local authorities. If you are in a position where the attack is close to you, check for injuries and administer first aid if safe to do so.

After an attack

After a terrorist attack, expect heavy law enforcement involvement at local, regional and national levels. These agencies, which may include counter-terrorism units and experts, will be on hand to investigate the incident and the location will be treated as a crime scene.

Your workplace, factory, stadium, beach or school may be closed and there may be restrictions on domestic and international travel. You and your family may need to evacuate the area, as directed by local law enforcement authorities.

Also, expect extensive media coverage from local and international media networks and an increased law enforcement presence, even if the attack did not occur in your community.

Inform security officials about the movements of suspicious people in your area who are trying to get away in a hurry.

To be fowarding something! Stay safe!

Detective Chief Inspector Mohammed Abdul Hanan EL-Saeed
Police Headquarters
Accra

[email protected]
0244087295