President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called for closer collaboration between the Ghana Police Service and the media to help strengthen security in communities.

He acknowledged that in recent times, the police had been updating the media frequently on intelligence gathered relating to crime and other negative vices.

“I commend the police for their recent engagements with the media, but let us try to deepen the relationship. It is very key in achieving your (Police) core mandates, you need the support of the media”, he stated.

Mr Dwumfour made these remarks when he paid a working visit to the Ashanti Regional Police Commander, DCOP Emmanuel Teye Cudjoe at his office in Kumasi, on Tuesday.

The GJA President said the media served as a bridge between the government and the people, adding that, it was important the police furnished newsmen with relevant information for proper delivery.

“It is necessary, because when the media goes against you, you will find it very difficult in achieving your vision and mission in the Region,” he declared.

Mr Dwumfour pledged the media’s readiness to support and cooperate with the security service through continuous engagement.

DCOP Teye Cudjoe, responding to the GJA’s appeal, noted that, although both the media and police shared a common objective - information gathering - lack of discretion in the media reportage, particularly on cases under investigation, could undermine efforts to combat crime.

The GJA President, accompanied by the General Secretary, Mr Dominic Hlordzi and other members of the Association in the Ashanti region, had earlier paid a visit to commiserate with management of the Kumasi-based Pure FM, which had some of its offices gutted by fire last week.

The visit, according to Mr Dwumfour, was to assess the fire situation which destroyed two offices and also to see how to mobilize support in the rebuilding of the burnt studio.

Members of the Association later held a closed-door meeting to discuss issues affecting media practices and welfare.