The outgoing Bechem Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent of Police (C/SUPT) Joseph Oppong, has urged police officers to uphold integrity, professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
He made the call on Friday, October 30, 2026, during his send-off ceremony at the forecourt of the Bechem District Police Headquarters in the Tano South Municipality of the Ahafo Region, following 37 years of service in the Ghana Police Service.
In his farewell address, C/SUPT Oppong described his career as a journey of service, sacrifice and commitment to the country.
“When I joined the service 37 years ago, I did so with a strong desire to serve my country and contribute to the safety and security of our communities,” he said.
He acknowledged the challenges associated with policing, stressing that the profession requires discipline, integrity and sacrifice.
“The Police profession is not easy, and it demands discipline, integrity, sacrifice and, above all, a strong sense of duty,” he noted.
He reminded serving officers that the police uniform represents responsibility, honour and public trust, urging them to serve with humility.
“Let us continue to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism and respect for human rights and serve with humility,” he charged.
C/SUPT Oppong also expressed gratitude to his wife, family and colleagues for their support throughout his career, particularly during periods when the demands of police work kept him away from home.
He commended personnel of the Bechem Division for organising the send-off ceremony, describing it as a reflection of the strong bond of brotherhood within the service.
“You have made me feel valued and appreciated, and I will forever cherish this moment,” he said.
In an emotional appeal, the retiring commander sought forgiveness from anyone he might have offended during his tenure, whether knowingly or unknowingly.
“If during my work as Bechem Divisional Commander, I offended anyone knowingly or unknowingly through my words, decisions, omissions or actions, I sincerely ask for forgiveness. In the same spirit, I hold no grudge against anyone, and I wish everyone well,” he stated.
He added that retirement was not the end of the friendships he had built but the beginning of a new chapter focused on family life, personal development and contributing to society.
C/SUPT Oppong concluded by thanking traditional authorities, the Municipal Chief Executive, members of MUSEC, departmental heads and all those who supported him during his tenure.
He prayed for God’s strength and wisdom for serving officers, saying, “May God richly bless each and every one of you and grant all serving officers the strength and wisdom to discharge their duties faithfully. God bless our motherland. Onyankopon nhyira Bechemman. Meda mo ase.”
