Involvement of Technological Growth on Policing Performance in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the involvements of technological growths on performance of police officers and suggest the best ways to enhance technology use in the Ghana Police Service. Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive research design survey. The sampling techniques used were simple random sampling. Raw data from respondents was obtained using questionnaires, interviews and focused group discussions. The qualitative data was analyzed thematically and by looking for patterns. They were presented in the form of narrative and verbatim quotations. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics includes percentages and means. They were presented in tables, graphs and pie charts. Findings: The results of the study established that the performance of police officers has greatly improved due to growth of technology. The study established that there was use of technology in Ghana police service though not very much advanced. Conclusion: The study concluded that Globalization and new technologies have facilitated certain cyber-criminal operations, thereby placing an additional burden on law enforcement agencies. Recommendation: The study recommends the government of Ghana should increase the allocation of funds to the National Police Service for the acquisition of updated equipment, to provide training at appropriate levels in forensic techniques and in technological skills for policy makers and law enforcement and investigative personnel, introduce appropriate procedural and substantive laws to deal with crimes committed in an electronic environment and raise public awareness, on  the appropriate use of the internet.