(IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reactivated all Regional Police Public Affairs Units, underscoring the necessity for enhanced collaboration between the Ghana Police Service and the media, to build public trust and improve crime-fighting efforts.
This announcement was made during a three-day workshop for Regional Public Affairs Officers at the Detective Training Academy on Thursday, March 20. This workshop is the first of its kind under the current police administration and aims to enhance the communication skills of officers nationwide.
In his address to participants, COP Yohuno emphasised the evolving role of the police in a democratic society, asserting that effective communication is vital for fostering public confidence.
“As our communities evolve, so must our approaches to law enforcement,” he stated, adding, “Our communication outreach must remain robust, transparent, and effective.”
He stressed the importance of engaging with the media in a professional manner to shape accurate public perceptions of police work, urging officers to strictly adhere to Service Instructions Number 7 (S.I. 7), which governs police-media relations.
“My three guiding principles for you moving forward are: protecting the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive information while remaining as open and transparent as possible; ensuring that all interactions with the media uphold the highest standards of credibility, integrity, and impartiality; and maintaining consistency in our messaging across all regions and units,” Mr. Yohuno declared.
The IGP also highlighted the media’s pivotal role as a key stakeholder in crime-fighting efforts, emphasising that public cooperation is essential for effective policing.
“No society can effectively combat crime without the support and collaboration of its citizens. Effective policing is a partnership that requires officers to work closely with the communities they serve to create a safer, crime-free environment,” he remarked.
COP Yohuno urged officers to remain vigilant in countering false narratives, ensuring accurate information reaches the public.
“This capacity training will equip you with new strategies to enhance your effectiveness. Our engagements with the media must be intentional, professional, and aligned with police directives,” he added.
The IGP assured officers that the police administration fully supports their efforts to strengthen community relations and promote citizen participation in security matters.
He also encouraged officers to embrace their roles with dedication and integrity, reminding them that their contributions are vital in enhancing the relationship between the police and the communities they serve.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke