Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has announced plans to lift the ban on police personnel engaging with the media, a restriction imposed by former IGP George Akuffo Dampare.
According to IGP Yohuno, combating rising crime requires public cooperation, and effective policing hinges on strong engagement between law enforcement and the community.
Speaking at a workshop for Public Relations Officers (PROs) on Thursday, March 20, he emphasized the need for transparency and assured that all Regional PROs and Police Affairs offices would be reactivated and revamped to facilitate better interactions with both the public and the media.
“No society can effectively combat crime without the support and collaboration of its people. This is why 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 stated.
He further stressed the importance of police accountability, highlighting that public trust is crucial for law enforcement effectiveness.
“At a time when the public demands greater accountability in our service delivery, a well-tested approach ensures police legitimacy and builds public confidence.
“This is where your significant role as Public Affairs Officers, enforcing positive interaction with the public, becomes essential and directly impacts police effectiveness.
“It is on this premise that the current police administration under my leadership will reactivate and revert all regional police affairs offices to interact and meet the evolving demands of our society and media partners,”* he assured.
The move is expected to enhance transparency and foster a stronger relationship between the Ghana Police Service and the public.