Community policing and crime prevention in Effutu municipality in the Central region of Ghana

Abstract

Crime is a significant contributor to global insecurity and hampers development. Despite traditional policing efforts, the escalating crime rates have led to a demand for a shift from military-based to democratic-based policing, known as community policing, which aims to prevent crime. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of community policing in preventing crime in the Effutu Municipality of the Central Region of Ghana. Ten participants were selected using purposive sampling, including representatives from the Crime Department of the Effutu Municipal Command, Community Police Assistants, and opinion leaders from three communities: Essuekyir, Winneba, and New Winneba. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather information from these key informants. The data were translated, reviewed, categorized, summarized, and interpreted to draw evidence-based conclusions. The study revealed that community policing officers utilize various strategies, such as evening patrols, to combat crime and ensure community safety. The study found that, the presence of community police has helped alleviate fear and anxiety among residents, fostering a sense of security and enabling smooth business activities. However, challenges such as a lack of public trust in the police, insufficient financial support, and limited resources hinder the operationalization of community policing. This as the study revealed has restrained the community policing program to fully achieve its objective of protecting lives and property in the Effutu Municipality. The study concluded that community policing is significant in ensuring community safety, fostering collaboration, and enhancing trust between the police and the community. The study recommends the development of a security framework that encourages shared decision-making between the police and community members in the Effutu Municipal area, with a focus on peace, security, and development.