IGP reinforces call for integrity and commitment in crime-fighting efforts

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno has reiterated the need for officers of the Ghana Police Service to conduct themselves with the highest level of integrity, professionalism, and discipline as they confront crime across the country, particularly illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.

He acknowledged the significant risks associated with policing, disclosing that about 20 officers lost their lives in the line of duty in 2025 alone.

Despite these sacrifices, the IGP stressed that officers must remain resolute, courageous, and fair in the enforcement of the law, regardless of the challenges they encounter.

IGP Yohuno made the remarks on Wednesday at the Police Headquarters in Accra during a promotion ceremony for officers drawn from the Special Investigative Team that investigated violence related to the 2020 and 2024 general elections, as well as personnel of the IGP’s Anti-Galamsey Task Force.

According to him, the promotions were intended not only to reward outstanding service but also to motivate officers across the Service to remain committed to ethical conduct and national duty.

He emphasised that integrity, loyalty, and bravery must underpin all police operations if public confidence in law enforcement is to be sustained.

“This is about selflessness, determination, and perseverance,” the IGP stated.

“We want the more than 49,000 officers working in communities across the country to understand that honest and dedicated service matters”

“You must not work to impress anyone; work with a pure heart, and in time, your efforts will be recognised and rewarded.”

Speaking on behalf of officers of the Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force who were promoted, Superintendent of Police Bawah Abdul Jalil reaffirmed the team’s unwavering commitment to the fight against illegal mining and other forms of organised crime.

He disclosed that the task force was deployed to the Ashanti Region with 105 officers to restore law and order in areas heavily affected by galamsey.

He explained that the operation was met with fierce resistance, particularly during the seizure of excavators used for illegal mining, with officers coming under gunfire.

“We faced serious threats and attacks in the course of our duties, but through discipline and teamwork, the situation was brought under control. The outcomes of our work are there for the public to see,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Chief Superintendent of Police John Kwaku Lodonu, speaking for the Special Investigative Team that probed the 2020 and 2024 election-related violence, said the team remains focused on ensuring accountability for all election offences.

He explained that while some prosecutions have already been successfully secured, investigations are ongoing to ensure that all individuals involved in electoral violence are dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

The ceremony, according to police authorities, forms part of efforts to recognise exemplary service, boost morale within the Service, and reinforce the leadership’s commitment to professionalism and accountability in policing.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith