Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has cautioned police officers against the use of excessive force, extortion and professional negligence, warning that such practices undermine public trust and endanger lives.
The remarks were delivered during a historic courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
He stressed that effective policing should go beyond law enforcement to include public education, restraint and the promotion of peace.
“Your duty is not to beat people. Your duty is to educate and create a peaceful atmosphere,” the Asantehene said.
Acknowledging internal challenges within the Ghana Police Service, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II noted that the conduct of some officers continues to damage the institution’s image.
“I know there are problems with some of your personnel that we must address. There are officers who give the police a bad image, and we have to work to correct that,” he stated.
He further condemned the practice of stopping vehicles to extort money instead of properly enforcing road safety regulations.
“You don’t stop cars just to take money when you are supposed to check insurance, tyres and whether the vehicle is roadworthy,” he said.
Warning of the consequences of such negligence, the Asantehene added: “If you take money and allow an unfit vehicle to continue and it causes an accident that kills people, what have you done?”
He concluded by stressing that poor working conditions or low salaries cannot justify misconduct. “It doesn’t matter your salary or wages,” he said.
