Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, has urged police officers to strengthen public trust by serving as protectors, listeners and agents of positive change within their communities.
Addressing officers during the closing ceremony of a 15 day workshop for 90 police officers in community policing, DCOP Francis Yiribaare reminded them that their responsibilities go beyond enforcing the law, stressing the need for stronger police-community relations.
“You were selected not only to represent your districts, but to become ambassadors of positive policing and positive change in the locations you serve,” he stated.
He encouraged officers to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and commitment in the discharge of their duties so communities can see them as approachable and dependable public servants.
“Let the community see you as officers who listen, officers who protect, officers who inspire confidence and officers who serve as a vital bridge between the communities and the police that you serve,” he added.
Amos Nunifant, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at Coastal State Stability Mechanism (CSSM) and IOM, urged police officers to apply the skills and values gained from recent training programs to strengthen community policing across the country.
“This training has not only built technical knowledge, but also strengthened attitudes, values, and approaches that are critical to effective community policing.”
He emphasized the importance of equipping officers with both the right skills and the right mindset, noting that such preparation helps communities feel safer, fosters cooperation, and contributes to more sustainable peace.
“As you return to your respective districts, I encourage you to carry these lessons forward, apply what you have learned, share it with your colleagues, and continue to engage communities with professionalism, respect, and empathy,” he stated.
Charles Lwanger Puozuing, Upper West Regional Minister, on his part called for a new approach to policing in the face of rising violent extremism, cross-border crime, misinformation, and communal tensions.
“Security can no longer be achieved through enforcement alone” he said, urging “citizens and security institutions to work together in mutual trust and shared responsibility.”
He highlighted community policing as “one of the most effective and indispensable pillars of modern security management” and praised training initiatives that focus on community engagement, conflict prevention, intelligence gathering, and respect for human rights.
According to the Minister, these skills form the foundation of “responsive, accountable and people-centered policing.”
