The Volta Regional Police Training School held a colorful graduation ceremony for 238 new police recruits on Friday, July 4. The event, filled with excitement, pride, and patriotism, marked a major milestone for the Ghana Police Service as it continues to strengthen its human resource base.
The occasion was not only about uniforms, salutes, and drills. It was also a moment of deep reflection on what it truly means to be a police officer in modern Ghana. The reviewing officer for the event, Commissioner of Police (COP) Daniel Kwame Afriyie, delivered a powerful message reminding the recruits of their true responsibilities.
In his keynote address, COP Afriyie emphasized that the badge on a police officer’s chest should never be used to intimidate or mistreat the public.
“The badge is not meant to scare citizens or assert power over them. It is a symbol of public trust, responsibility, and dedication to peacekeeping,” he said.
He urged the new officers to act with integrity and remain disciplined, especially in a time when public trust in law enforcement is more important than ever.
The graduating batch consisted of 31 cadet officers and 207 general recruits. Their comprehensive training spanned classroom lessons, field exercises, and physical preparedness. They were taught subjects such as:
- Criminal law and human rights
- Police ethics and professional conduct
- Disaster and emergency response
- Crowd control and public order management
- Swimming and driving
- Weapon handling and tactical drills
This curriculum was designed to prepare them not just for routine duties, but also for emerging threats like cybercrime, terrorism, and organized violence.
COP Afriyie highlighted that modern law enforcement demands not just physical strength, but also intellectual readiness, emotional intelligence, and a strong sense of service to society.
In line with government efforts to create a 24-hour economy, COP Afriyie announced that the Ghana Police Service has established a dedicated 24-Hour Economy Security Secretariat at its national headquarters.
“This unit will work closely with businesses, transport providers, and security agencies to protect night workers, late-night commuters, and commercial establishments that operate after traditional hours,” he noted.
The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce unemployment and increase productivity by encouraging businesses to operate beyond daytime hours. The police will play a critical role in maintaining peace and security as economic activity grows around the clock.
COP Afriyie reiterated the importance of winning public trust through professional behavior. He cautioned the recruits against the misuse of power, bribery, and other forms of corruption. Instead, he encouraged them to be:
- Tactful in dealing with civilians
- Emotionally disciplined, even under pressure
- Ethical and transparent in all operations
- Protective of human rights and civil liberties
“Public trust is not automatically given—it is earned through competence, fairness, and respect. If citizens fear you, they will not support your work. But if they trust you, they will help you prevent crime and maintain peace,” he advised.
Among the graduates, Recruit Emmanuel Amedume stood out and was honored as the Overall Best Recruit for his performance during the training period. He was commended for his discipline, leadership, and academic excellence.
The ceremony drew a large crowd including government officials, traditional leaders, and family members. Notable guests were:
- The Volta Regional Minister
- The Member of Parliament for Ho Central
- Senior Police Commanders
- Heads of other security services
- Chiefs and community elders
They all expressed their confidence in the new recruits and urged them to serve with dedication.
The Volta Regional Police Passing-Out Parade was more than a celebration—it was a call to higher responsibility. At a time when Ghana faces complex security threats, both online and offline, the nation needs officers who are not only well-trained but also morally upright.
The message from COP Afriyie was clear: the badge you wear is not a license to intimidate, but a promise to protect.
As these 238 new officers join the national security effort, citizens across the country look forward to a more responsive, respectful, and reliable police force.
