DCOP Lydia Donkor appointed new CID D-G

On March 19, 2025, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor was appointed as the new Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service. This high-profile appointment follows a series of strategic reassignment announcements by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, which affect various directorates and regional commands within the service. The changes, effective immediately, reflect a broader strategy to elevate leadership across the police force.

With over two decades of experience in law enforcement, law practice, and human rights advocacy, DCOP Donkor has earned a reputation as one of the most distinguished professionals in Ghana’s legal and law enforcement sectors.

DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor’s profile

A Journey from law to law enforcement leadership

DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor’s academic foundation has been one of excellence. A proud product of Wesley Girls Senior High School, Donkor pursued higher education at the University of Ghana, Legon, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Political Science. Her academic journey then took her to the Ghana School of Law, where she was called to the bar as a Barrister-at-Law. Furthering her expertise, she earned a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in International and Human Rights Law from the prestigious University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. Her educational background laid the groundwork for her dual career in both law practice and law enforcement.

Career: From legal practice to Police Service

DCOP Donkor’s professional trajectory has seamlessly intertwined legal practice and law enforcement, showcasing her versatility and commitment to justice. She began her career in law as an Associate at Acquah-Sampson & Associates, specializing in litigation and legal drafting. In addition, she provided pro bono legal services for the Legal Aid Board in Takoradi, advocating for the rights of women and children and ensuring that underprivileged communities had access to legal representation.

Her transition into law enforcement was swift and remarkable. Donkor quickly rose through the ranks of the Ghana Police Service, holding pivotal roles such as the Head of Legal & Prosecutions in several regions. She was also a Divisional Commander of Tesano and District Commander of Tesano-Accra, where she was widely praised for her leadership and commitment to upholding the law.

In addition to her role in the national police force, DCOP Donkor contributed significantly to international peacekeeping. She served as a United Nations Police Officer (UNPOL) in Liberia, focusing on internal evaluations and addressing conduct and discipline issues, further demonstrating her capacity to operate in diverse and challenging environments.

A published leader with global excellence

DCOP Donkor’s thirst for knowledge has led her to participate in numerous specialized training programs and workshops across the globe. Notably, she attended the United Nations Senior Mission Leaders’ Course in Korea and participated in International Association of Women Police Officers’ Conferences held in Canada, South Africa, and the United States. These experiences have enriched her expertise, particularly in areas such as counter-terrorism, anti-human trafficking, money laundering, and election security. Her dedication to continuous learning ensures that she remains at the forefront of developments in law enforcement and global security issues, positioning her as a leader who brings invaluable global insights to Ghana’s law enforcement community.

A passion for human rights and gender parity

Beyond her professional achievements, DCOP Donkor has been a strong advocate for human rights and women’s empowerment. As a proud member of the Ghana Bar Association, the Police Ladies Association, and the International Association of Women Police Officers, she has worked tirelessly to ensure gender equality in the police force and beyond.

Her leadership extends into the world of sports, where she chairs the Safety & Security Committee of the Ghana Football Association and serves as a Safety and Security Officer for the Confederation of African Football. In this role, she ensures the safety of fans, players, and officials during international football events across the continent. Moreover, she has made a significant impact in the sports community by transforming the Police Ladies Football Club into one of the strongest teams in the Ghana Women’s Premier League. As CEO of the club, she has empowered female athletes, encouraging more women to participate in sports and ensuring that the club remains a beacon of success in the country’s football landscape.

New standards and vision for the future in CID

Currently serving as the Director-General of the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB), DCOP Donkor’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and integrity remains unwavering. She continues to mentor the next generation of police officers and legal professionals while ensuring the highest standards of efficiency in law enforcement. Her new role as Director-General of the CID marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in her career. With her unparalleled experience and dedication to service, DCOP Donkor is poised to continue her legacy of transforming the Ghana Police Service, setting new benchmarks for excellence in the fight against crime and the protection of citizens.

As she steps into her new role, the future of the CID looks brighter, with DCOP Donkor’s leadership promising to guide the department toward greater effectiveness and justice in the years ahead.