The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has reactivated all Regional Police Public Affairs Units, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between the Ghana Police Service and the media to enhance public trust and crime-fighting efforts.
He made this announcement at a three-day workshop for Regional Public Affairs Officers, held at the Detective Training Academy on Thursday, March 20.
The workshop marks the first of its kind under the current police administration and aims to enhance the communication skills of officers across the country.
Addressing participants, COP Yohuno highlighted the evolving role of the police in a democratic society, stressing that effective communication is key to building public confidence.
“As our communities evolve, so must our approaches to law enforcement,” he noted.
“It is critical that our communication outreach remains robust, transparent, and effective.”
He reiterated the importance of engaging the media intentionally and professionally to ensure accurate public perception of police work, urging officers to adhere strictly to Service Instructions Number 7 (S.I. 7), which governs police-media relations.
“My three pillars for you going 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 adhere to the highest standards of credibility, integrity, and impartiality; and maintaining consistency in our messaging across all regions and units,” Mr. Yohuno stated.
The IGP also underscored the media’s role as a crucial stakeholder in crime-fighting efforts, emphasizing that public cooperation is key to effective policing.
“No society can effectively combat crime without the support and collaboration of its people. Effective policing is a partnership that requires officers to work closely with the communities they serve to foster a safer and crime-free environment,” he said.
In the era of widespread misinformation, particularly through digital and social media, COP Yohuno charged officers to be vigilant in countering false narratives, ensuring that accurate information reaches the public.
“This capacity training will equip you with new strategies to improve your effectiveness. Our engagements with the media must be intentional, professional, and aligned with police directives,” he added.
The IGP assured the officers that the Police Administration stands firmly behind their efforts to foster stronger community relations, promoting citizen participation in security matters.
He concluded by encouraging the officers to embrace their roles with dedication and integrity, reminding them that their contribution is irreplaceable in enhancing the bond between the police and the communities they serve.
The workshop is expected to empower participants with new insights and strategies to navigate the ever-changing landscape of police-public relations, ensuring a more transparent, accountable, and community-focused Ghana Police Service.
