IGP Raises Alarm Over Declining Quality of Police Investigations
At the Regional Crime Officers Conference in Accra, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, expressed deep concern over what he described as a “disturbing downward trend” in the quality and success rate of police investigations—an issue he said strikes at the core of the Ghana Police Service’s mandate.
“As the head of the Ghana Police Service, I am committed to reversing this trend and enhancing our investigative capabilities,” he stated.
The IGP noted that recent crime statistics revealed a worrying decline in investigative outcomes, a situation he warned undermines public trust and emboldens criminal activity.
“This trend is unacceptable, and we must take responsibility for reversing it. Excelling in investigative work is not optional—it is central to our duty,” he said.
He reminded crime officers that they stand at the frontline of the fight against crime, stressing that their leadership is pivotal in restoring investigative excellence. He urged them to uphold guiding principles that define the service’s professionalism and integrity.
Mr Yohuno emphasised that crime officers must take full responsibility for the quality of investigations conducted under their supervision. Poor performance or misconduct by investigators, he said, must be promptly reported to the Police Administration for action.
He called for stronger collaboration across units, agencies and stakeholders to improve intelligence sharing, resource pooling and best‑practice adoption—key elements in tackling increasingly complex crimes.
With crime evolving rapidly, the IGP underscored the need for continuous capacity building. He acknowledged systemic challenges such as high caseloads, limited logistics, inadequate forensic support and technology-driven criminal methods, stressing that these realities demand a modernised investigative approach.
He encouraged crime officers to seek support to organise internal training in forensic investigations, cybercrime, financial crimes and intelligence‑led policing.
“This will enable you to adapt to challenges, exploit emerging trends and stay ahead of criminals,” he said.
The IGP also urged officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, noting that integrity is essential to rebuilding public confidence.
“We must ensure that thorough and timely investigations are conducted, and that crime returns and reports are promptly submitted,” he added.
He reminded officers that accountability—both personal and collective—is essential to promoting transparency and demonstrating the service’s commitment to excellence.
Mr Yohuno concluded by urging crime officers to take ownership of the challenge before them.
“Your dedication, expertise and commitment to excellence are crucial to making Ghana safer. Let us restore public confidence in our service and build a safer, more just society for all Ghanaians. Let’s work together to make a difference.”
---GNA