Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, holds the distinction of being the youngest IGP appointed in the Fourth Republic and the eighth youngest since Ghana’s inception as a republic.
Dr. Dampare began his journey in the police service as a Constable in December 1990, embarking on a remarkable rise through the ranks.
After 24 years of dedicated service, he attained the position of Commissioner of Police (COP) at the age of 44 in the year 2014.
Subsequently, he was appointed Acting IGP and later confirmed as the IGP by President Akufo-Addo on August 1, 2021.
Since assuming his role, the nation and the police service have undergone noteworthy transformations, ranging from a decreased crime rate to an enhanced trust in the integrity and public image of the police force.
Decreased crime rate
The primary responsibilities of the police service are to maintain peace, uphold law and order within Ghana’s borders, and to actively address and prevent criminal activities in the nation.
During his tenure, IGP Dampare has effectively contributed to a notable reduction in the country’s crime rate, as evidenced by reports from the Crime Index Ghana spanning from 2014 to 2023.
The report indicates that in 2019, the level of crime in Ghana reached a peak of nearly 52 points but subsequently experienced a significant decline to 44.5.
The crime index serves as a measurement of crime levels in a given country or city. This decline in the crime index indicates that, during that time, Ghana experienced a considerable decrease in criminal activities, with the crime rate being categorized as moderately low.
Restoration of police integrity and trust
Prior to his appointment, it was a common practice for some police officers to cite “orders from above” as a reason for not prosecuting certain individuals and ensuring justice.
However, since IGP Dampare assumed his role, this practice has significantly decreased. He has been vocal in various media engagements, emphasizing his commitment to empower his officers to treat all individuals equally under the law.
As a result of this approach, five Members of Parliament were arrested for violating the law, with most of the cases involving traffic offenses.
The MPs arrested were: Emmanuel Kofi Buah (Ellembele MP), Mohammed Adams Sukparu (Sissala West MP), Dr. Stephen Amoah (Nhyiaeso MP), Kwabena Ohemeng-Tinyase (Former Kade MP), and George Mireku Duker (Tarkwa Nsuaem MP).
Furthermore, the recent arrest of influential individuals from the New Patriotic Party during the Assin-North bye-elections for electoral malpractice has dispelled allegations that the police service is acting as an arm of the government to oppress the minority.
IGP Dampare’s actions have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the rule of law without favoritism or bias.
Created a more relatable police force
IGP Dampare has exemplified the essence of the phrase, “The police is your friend.” From the onset of his tenure, he has prioritized building connections with ordinary Ghanaians. Whether it’s addressing angry youth in Ada regarding a dispute with the Electricity Company of Ghana or engaging with students at a public school who were initially apprehensive about the police, IGP Dampare has made personal connections to demonstrate that the police are approachable and supportive.
In an effort to reassure the young pupils that the police are indeed their friends, a high-powered delegation of senior officers, led by the IGP, visited the school to educate them about the duties and roles of the Ghana Police Service.
His relatable approach has earned him the endearing title of “the celebrity IGP,” and it has led many to perceive the police service under his leadership as more appealing and approachable. By fostering a friendly and empathetic image, IGP Dampare has been successful in strengthening the bond between the police and the Ghanaian community.
An end to the incessant rise of doom prophecies
On December 31, 2021, the usual ominous prophecies about deaths, diseases, and negative premonitions by certain prominent preachers were notably absent.
The reason behind this change was the proactive warning issued by the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare. He cautioned these individuals to exercise caution in their prophecies during that time of the year to avoid infringing the law. The law enforcement department was prepared to take action against those who engaged in fearmongering without any evidence to support their claims.
The IGP’s warning had a significant impact, as he emphasized that under Ghanaian law, it is considered a crime for anyone to publish or spread statements, rumors, or reports likely to cause fear, alarm, or disturb public peace without concrete evidence to substantiate their claims.
This stance by the police force aimed to curb the dissemination of baseless and alarming predictions, ensuring a sense of security and peace among the public during the New Year celebrations.
The introduction of K-9 units and horse patrol operation
During IGP Dampare’s tenure, the Ghana Police Service introduced innovative measures to enhance law enforcement capabilities. One notable initiative was the establishment of horse patrol units and the deployment of K-9 units to strategic vantage points across the country. In October 2021, the Ghana Police Service revealed that officers, along with highly trained security dogs, were stationed at key locations in Accra.
This novel approach to policing aimed at achieving multiple objectives. Firstly, it increased the visibility of police personnel in public areas, fostering a sense of security and reassurance among the public. Secondly, it facilitated improved intelligence gathering, allowing the police to stay ahead of potential criminal activities and respond swiftly to emerging threats. Additionally, the K-9 units proved instrumental in detecting and tracking contraband goods, further bolstering the fight against illegal activities.
In August of the same year, the Police Administration extended this progressive policing approach by introducing the use of horses for patrol operations in Tema, Accra, and their surrounding communities. The incorporation of mounted officers not only added an extra layer of visibility and accessibility to policing but also proved to be an effective method for patrolling various terrains, especially in densely populated urban areas.
These modern and strategic advancements in the Ghana Police Service demonstrated IGP Dampare’s commitment to embracing innovative methodologies to ensure public safety, combat crime, and foster community trust in law enforcement.