By: Jude Tackie
Sargent Kwabena Tandoh, fondly known as “Commando” within the Madina Divisional Police Command, has appeared as a trailblazer with law enforcement technology, boasting the most extensive collection of camera gears among Ghanaian police officers.
In an exclusive interview with happyghana.com, Commando revealed the motivations behind his remarkable initiative and the transformative impact it has had on police operations.
“This is what I personally started to beautify and augment the work we are doing,” Commando shared passionately.
He highlighted the perennial challenge of reconciling conflicting accounts during incidents, often prolonging the quest for truth. Determined to streamline this process, Commando embarked on a mission to equip himself with advanced camera technologies, initially aiming for 360-degree cameras but opting for Go-Pro cameras due to budget constraints.
“I wanted to beautify the work I do and make it more enticing,” he emphasized. Commando’s commitment to improving operational effectiveness overcame early misgivings and bureaucratic roadblocks, and his superiors came to appreciate the critical role his initiative played in promoting investigations and guaranteeing responsibility.
Commando’s dedication to his craft is exemplified by the impressive array of cameras integrated into his gear. He disclosed, “I’m the only officer in the entire Ghana with the most cameras planted on me.”
His equipment includes four cameras embedded in his helmet, another discreetly positioned in his vest, and an additional five adorning his motorbike. These cameras serve as invaluable tools for capturing real-time footage and providing crucial evidence in law enforcement proceedings.
Reflecting on the challenges encountered along the way, Commando acknowledged the substantial financial investment required to procure and maintain his arsenal of Go-Pro cameras. However, his unwavering commitment to public service and the pursuit of excellence remains undeterred.
Commando recounted a heartening encounter with a visiting US police officer, stressing the universal recognition of his innovative approach to policing.
Impressed by his swift response to an incident, the American officer generously contributed replacement cameras, proving Commando’s belief in the transformative power of collaboration and shared knowledge.
“She didn’t disclose her identity to me. There was an incident that needed the police attention and right after she called I arrived there swiftly and she was impressed. She returned to the US and she sent some cameras to replace my broken ones,” he recounted.
Commando’s pioneering initiative stands as a testament to the transformative potential of technology in law enforcement, reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to advancing innovation in the pursuit of justice and security for all citizens.
Commando is determined to prove the efficiency and efficacy of technology as a revolutionary agent in law enforcement.