“Policing will not only remain manual” — ACP Alexander Obeng highlights technology-driven road traffic enforcement

The Director of Research, Training and Education at the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, ACP Alexander Kwaku Obeng, has underscored the Police Service’s commitment to leveraging technology to strengthen road traffic law enforcement, stating that “policing will not only remain manual.”

Speaking on the implementation of the new Road Traffic Regulations, ACP Obeng revealed that the introduction of automated road traffic offence detection and fine administration systems forms a key component of the reforms aimed at improving compliance and enhancing road safety across the country.

According to him, the initiative aligns with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who championed the integration of technology into traffic management during his tenure as Director-General of MTTD.

ACP Obeng praised the IGP for his foresight in recognizing the limitations of manual enforcement and advocating technological solutions to support police officers in the discharge of their duties.

“Policing will not only remain manual,” ACP Obeng emphasized, explaining that traditional methods of traffic enforcement—where officers physically stop motorists, impound vehicles, and process offences at police stations—have proven inadequate in addressing the growing complexities of road traffic management.

He noted that technology-enabled enforcement systems will allow the Police Service to detect, record and process traffic infractions more efficiently, even in the absence of officers on the ground.

Such systems, he said, will make it easier to identify offending vehicles, link offences to vehicle owners, and ensure accountability without the need for prolonged police pursuits.

The MTTD official further explained that the adoption of technology is in line with global best practices and recommendations by the United Nations under the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety, which encourages countries to utilize technological innovations to create safer roads and improve mobility.

ACP Obeng stressed that while technology will complement enforcement efforts, police officers will continue to play a central role in road safety operations.

He added that extensive training programmes are being rolled out to equip personnel with the knowledge and skills required to enforce the new regulations effectively.

He expressed confidence that the combined use of technology and professional policing will significantly improve traffic law enforcement and contribute to reducing road crashes and fatalities in Ghana.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith