Commissioner of Police (COP), Daniel Kwame Afriyie, Director-General in charge of Private Security Organizations, has charged newly passed-out police recruits to exhibit high levels of competence that matches the trust and confidence reposed in them by the public.

Addressing 238 recruits at the Volta Regional Police Training School in Ho, COP Afriyie reminded the officers that the nation’s reliance on the Ghana Police Service for the maintenance of peace, security, and social cohesion which were critical pillars for national development, remained unshaken.

The graduating cohort comprised 31 Under Cadets and 207 General Recruits.

COP Afriyie emphasized the vital role of the Police in the successful implementation of the government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy policy, noting that a well-secured environment was essential for uninterrupted economic and social activity.

He announced that the Police Administration had already established a special unit, namely, the 24-Hour Economy Security Secretariat at the Police Headquarters to coordinate security aspects of that initiative.

Commending the recruits for their impressive parade and smart turnout, he noted that their display reflected dedication, resilience, and commitment throughout the rigorous training period.

He stated, “Your performance affirms the popular saying that 'smartness in uniform reflects mental alertness and a sound mind in a sound body.' It is a clear demonstration of your readiness to serve the nation diligently.”

The recruits underwent a comprehensive training programme, including both academic and fieldwork components.

The academic areas covered Police Science, Law, and Social Sciences, while field exercises included public order management, disaster and incident response, swimming, driving, riding, and other practical disciplines.

COP Afriyie expressed confidence that the training had equipped the recruits with the knowledge and skills needed to perform effectively, with integrity and professionalism.

The Reviewing Officer highlighted emerging security threats such as cybercrime, violent attacks, communal conflicts, and evolving criminal tactics, stressing that these developments demanded a more diverse, specialized, and skilled Police Service.

He acknowledged ongoing reforms under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, which include reviewing operational capacity, revitalizing specialized units, and addressing dwindling morale and manpower challenges.

“In response to these realities, the Police Administration is restoring focus and capacity in our specialized operational units and is committed to boosting manpower and morale to enhance performance,” he noted.

COP Afriyie reminded the recruits of their core duty to serve the public with integrity, fairness, and respect for human rights.

“As Police Officers, you are servants of the people. The badge on your chest is not a license to intimidate, but a pledge to serve with humility, courage, and honour,” he said.

He advised them to uphold the Police Service motto, “Service with Integrity,” and avoid any conduct-on or off duty-that could bring the Service into disrepute.

He stressed the importance of police-public relations, saying, “To every crime committed, there is a public eye that sees it. A positive relationship with the public is essential to encourage the flow of information vital for effective policing.”

COP Afriyie also reminded the public that national security was a shared responsibility and called on all citizens to support the Police Service through cooperation, respect, and the provision of credible information.

“Ghanaians must not only demand accountability from the Police but must also play their part in making our country safe,” he added.

G/Recruit Emmanuel Amedome-Reigns was named Overall Best Recruit of the 2024/2025 intake.

The event drew a number of dignitaries, including Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister; Mr Richmond Edem Kofi Kpotosu, Member of Parliament for Ho Central; senior commanders of the Police Service in the region; heads of sister security agencies; families and friends of the recruits; and other notable personalities.