The Savannah Regional Police Command on Friday, June 13, 2025, held a solemn yet celebratory farewell ceremony in honour of its outgoing Regional Commander, COP Samuel Alfred Winful, who has officially retired after 29 years of dedicated service to the Ghana Police Service.
The event, which took place at the forecourt of the Regional Police Headquarters in Damongo, brought together top-ranking officers from the National Police Headquarters, regional commanders, traditional leaders, political figures, and community members, all of whom gathered to pay tribute to COP Winful’s remarkable career and contributions to law enforcement in Ghana.
COP Samuel Alfred Winful joined the Ghana Police Service on May, 15, 1996, and rose through the ranks to become a Deputy Commissioner of Police on September 1, 2020. He was promoted to the highest rank of Commissioner of Police on November 1, 2024. Over the years, he served in several capacities across the country, earning a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to justice and public safety.
Speaking on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yehonu, and the Police Management Board (POMAB), COP Joseph Gyamera Oklu described COP Winful’s career as one of “unwavering dedication, principled leadership, and absolute commitment to justice.” He acknowledged the retiring commander’s significant contributions to the service, including the digitalization of the payroll system, establishment of a human resource database, and the introduction of a case tracking system for the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
“Your leadership style has been both firm and compassionate,” DCOP Oklu stated. “You not only enforced the law but also advanced modern policing techniques and helped strengthen community partnerships. Your exit marks the end of a remarkable era in Ghana’s policing history.”
Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Salisu Abi-Awurbi, also paid glowing tribute to the outgoing commander. “COP Winful is a commander retiring, but not tired,” he said. “Despite the authority he wielded, he remained measured and humane, even under pressure. His conduct is a lesson for all upcoming leaders.”
He added, “We may be bidding him farewell from active service, but the nation will continue to rely on his well of wisdom. His legacy will be remembered not only in Damongo, but across Bole, Daboya, Buipe, and other areas where peace was maintained under his leadership.”
In his farewell speech, COP Samuel Alfred Winful expressed profound gratitude to the Police Administration, his colleagues, the Savannah Regional Security Council (REGSEC), traditional leaders, religious bodies, and his family for their support throughout his career.
“I began this journey not knowing where it would take me. It has been a path of service, sacrifice, and leadership,” he said. “While I look forward to a well-deserved rest, I will always carry with me the memories and lessons from my years in uniform.”
He extended special thanks to the Overlord of Gonjaland, His Royal Majesty Bii-Kunuto, the Regional Minister, and all Members of Parliament in the Savannah Region, including Hon. Samuel Abu Jinapor (MP for Damongo) and Hon. Yussif Sulemana (MP for Bole). He also acknowledged the support of his family and church, saying their prayers and encouragement sustained him throughout the demanding years of public service.
The ceremony was attended by several senior officers from the Ghana Police Service, including:
• COP Peter Baba Atiniak – Director General, Police intelligence.
• DCOP Sebastian Atsu Wemegah – Director, General ICT
• DCOP Prince Gabriel Waabu – Director General, MTTD
• DCOP Eric Ken Winful – Director General, NAPD
• DCOP Arhin Kwasi Annor – Director General, Special Duties.
The event concluded with a presentation of gifts and a parade by officers in honour of the retiring commander.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
