Transforming policing in Ghana through technology: a focus on police operations in the Greater Accra region

Ogochukwu Chidiebere Nweke; Smita Francis

doi:10.20525/ijrbs.v13i5.3459

Authors

Ogochukwu Chidiebere Nweke School of Policing and Law Enforcement, STADIO, , Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6956-5345
Smita Francis School of Policing and Law Enforcement, STADIO, , Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6974-4911

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20525/ijrbs.v13i5.3459

Keywords:

Law Enforcement Technology, Ghana Police Service, Policiing, Technology Adoption Barriers, Community Engagement

Abstract

Integrating technology into policing has the potential to greatly improve the effectiveness, transparency, and community participation of law enforcement agencies. This study examines the profound influence of technology on the Ghana Police Service, with a specific emphasis on the Greater Accra Region. The main aim of this research is to examine how technological advancements might enhance police results and tackle existing difficulties in the context of law enforcement in Ghana. The study adopts a qualitative research approach and collects data from police officers and community members through the use of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The investigation involved the participation of a combined total of twenty-six police officials from the Tema and Accra Regional Headquarters, as well as twenty-two community members. The data gathering procedure sought to gather a wide range of viewpoints on the present condition of technology in law enforcement, its advantages, difficulties, and prospects for future advancement. The results demonstrate that the utilisation of technology, such as mobile data terminals and social media platforms, can greatly improve the effectiveness of police operations, promote community involvement, and increase transparency. Nevertheless, the presence of obstacles such as insufficient infrastructure, cultural opposition, and the necessity for extensive training were also acknowledged. The research enhances the current knowledge by presenting empirical evidence on the benefits and constraints of technology in law enforcement, particularly in the setting of Ghana. This study emphasises the significance of making strategic investments in technology infrastructure and training, as well as the necessity of establishing legal frameworks to tackle ethical and privacy concerns. Additionally, it proposes that future studies should prioritise examining the enduring viability of technological advancements in law enforcement and investigating their effects in various geographical areas. The study suggests that politicians and law enforcement organisations should promote the deployment of technology in a way that is successful and build public trust in the Ghana Police Service.

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