The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has removed the communication restrictions previously placed on police spokespersons, encouraging a fresh and proactive interaction with the media.

During a workshop for police relations officers, Yohuno stressed the importance of good communication explaining that effective communication builds public trust and helps improve crime-fighting efforts.

He emphasised that society's expectations and media scrutiny are changing rapidly, making it crucial for the police to communicate effectively and strategically. This, he says, is necessary to maintain the public's trust and confidence in the police force.

“This is why effective policing is a partnership—one that requires officers to work closely with the communities they serve to foster a safer and crime-free environment.

"In times when the public demands greater involvement and accountability in our service delivery, a well-tested approach ensures police legitimacy and boosts public confidence.

"This is where your significant role as public affairs officers in fostering positive interactions with the public becomes essential and directly impacts police effectiveness,” he stated.

Christian Yohuno noted that the media's engagement in reporting can either positively or negatively impact how the public views the police and their ability to fight crime.

“Over the years, the media has been a key stakeholder in crime-fighting efforts and has influenced public perceptions of our work in numerous ways. Therefore, our engagement with the media must be intentional, professional, and instructive, “he added.

"It is on this premise that the current police administration, under my leadership, will reactivate and invite all Regional Police Public affairs offices to re-interact and meet the evolving demands of our society and media partners," he added.

The Ghana Police Service under Dr George Akuffo Dampare, established a centralized system for information sharing to improve communication and maintain consistent messaging.

This approach limited regional officers from responding to media inquiries and created challenges at the national headquarters, where the Public Affairs unit mainly issued press releases on social media.



MKA/EK