Wa:Trust-building initiatives are essential for maintaining public confidence in the police and ensuring peace and security, according to DCOP Mr. Francis Yiribaare, the Upper West Regional Police Commander.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Yiribaare highlighted the importance of engaging with community members, conducting regular police visibility patrols, gathering intelligence, and resolving conflicts as crucial measures to prevent crime and address tensions before they escalate. This was discussed during a community policing validation workshop organized by the Upper West Regional Police Command in collaboration with the Coastal States Stability Mechanism (CSSM).
The workshop followed the training of 90 police officers from the Wa West, Sissala West, and Lambussie Districts earlier this year. This training aimed to enhance the relationship between the police and civilians to maintain peace and order. Participants included beneficiaries of the community policing training and officers from the Ghana Immigration Service, who gathered to assess the initiative's impact on police operations in these districts.
Mr. Yiribaare mentioned that the Regional Police Command has incorporated trust-building activities in their daily operations, describing them as 'confidence and trust-building patrols.' These patrols not only involve deploying officers to deter crime but also include engaging with motorists and community members to gather information on emerging security issues.
He emphasized the importance of clear communication, professionalism, and addressing misinformation to maintain public trust. Additionally, Mr. Clifford Tampuori, the Upper West Regional Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, called for a coordinated approach to community policing in the region. He recommended establishing a regional coordination framework, enhancing public education, and fostering collaboration among security agencies to improve community safety.
Mr. Tampuori outlined the need for clearly defined institutional responsibilities, improved communication, accountability mechanisms, and community participation in identifying and addressing security concerns. He suggested that the community policing coordination framework should include clear referral pathways, communication arrangements, and accountability requirements.
Ms. Ekanem Bassey, Head of Sub Office of CSSM, applauded the Upper West Regional Police Command for taking ownership of the community policing initiative and applying the skills from the training in their routine operations. She praised the trained personnel for presenting evidence of their activities and outcomes in the three districts and stressed the importance of viewing community policing as an ongoing institutional responsibility rather than a one-time intervention. She urged the Police Service to continue this approach through operational plans and regular community engagements.