2 days ago
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reaffirmed his commitment to addressing outstanding issues related to police promotions and welfare. He assured officers that once the Police Council is fully constituted, all pending petitions would be reviewed and processed accordingly. Speaking at the Regional Police Commanders’ Conference in Accra, the IGP emphasized the importance of professional growth and improved working conditions for police personnel. The gathering, which brought together regional commanders from various parts of the country, served as a platform to evaluate previous security strategies, exchange innovative ideas, and develop plans for enhanced policing in the future. Mr. Yohuno underscored that officers’ well-being—including access to proper healthcare, suitable accommodation, and conducive working conditions—was fundamental to effective law enforcement. He further described his appointment as Ghana’s 24th IGP as both an honor and a shared responsibility, urging officers to remain dedicated and diligent in their duties. Highlighting the essence of security, he stated that law enforcement should not only be visible but also create a genuine sense of safety among citizens.
The IGP acknowledged that policing in the modern era comes with increased public scrutiny, where every action taken by officers is examined and evaluated. He stressed the importance of maintaining professionalism, transparency, and adherence to the highest policing standards. Addressing key security concerns, Mr. Yohuno pointed to illegal mining, the persistent Bawku conflict, and a surge in violent attacks on mobile money vendors as urgent matters requiring immediate intervention. He condemned the brutal attacks carried out by criminals, particularly in mining communities and forest reserves, and declared a firm stance against crimes linked to illegal mining. In his directive to regional commanders, he called for decisive action against individuals engaged in such illicit activities. The Bawku conflict, he noted, posed a significant threat to national security, and he urged officers to employ their expertise in conflict resolution to restore peace in the region. He also raised concerns over the increasing number of violent incidents targeting mobile money vendors, which have led to loss of lives and financial instability. Calling for innovative crime-fighting approaches, he insisted that criminals should never be allowed to outmaneuver law enforcement. Additionally, he highlighted corruption, police intimidation, excessive use of force, and procedural injustice as factors that erode public trust in the police service.
In response to these challenges, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Dr. David Agyeman Adjem, Director-General of Administration, emphasized the need for law enforcement to embrace modernization, enhance community engagement, and uphold integrity in leadership. He pointed out that Ghana’s security landscape is rapidly evolving, necessitating a more technologically advanced and community-driven police force. Dr. Adjem encouraged regional commanders to take ownership of crime-fighting initiatives, ensuring that criminals find no loopholes or safe havens. He underscored that effective policing extends beyond enforcement—it involves building trust and fostering relationships between law enforcement and the public. He commended the recent reactivation and reorientation of police-public relations offices as a step in the right direction, adding that public confidence in the police can only be earned through professionalism, transparency, and fairness. Furthermore, he advocated for increased investment in modern policing technology and strengthened international partnerships to bolster Ghana’s security framework. Dr. Adjem urged commanders to leave the conference with renewed motivation to serve, protect, and lead with excellence.
Total Comments: 0