Meet DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor, new Director-General of CID trailblazing law enforcement and legal advocacy

She takes over from COP Faustina Agyeiwaa Kodua Andoh-Kwofie, who was appointed in 2022.

As the new Director-General of the CID, she would be responsible for all criminal matters, overseeing the running and maintenance of an effective and efficient Detective Training School for the training of all detectives in the country, coordinating activities of regional, divisional, district and station CIDs and supervising monitoring and controlling activities of all units under the department.

Here is a brief profile of the new CID Director-General

Early Life and Education

A product of Wesley Girls Senior High School, DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Political Science from the University of Ghana, Legon.

She later pursued a Barrister-at-Law at the Ghana School of Law, solidifying her legal expertise. Recognising the need for further specialisation, she earned a Master of Laws (LLM) degree from the prestigious University of Leeds in the United Kingdom in International and Human Rights Law.

Career in Law and Law Enforcement

DCOP Donkor’s professional journey is an impressive blend of law practice and law enforcement.

She began her career as an associate at Acquah-Sampson and Associates, where she handled litigation and legal drafting. She also served as a Pro Bono advocate for the Legal Aid Board in Takoradi, where she championed gender and children’s rights, providing legal representation for underprivileged communities.

Her transition into law enforcement was marked by a swift rise through the ranks of the Ghana Police Service. She served in various capacities, including Head of Legal & Prosecutions in multiple regions, Divisional Commander of Tesano, and District Commander of Tesano-Accra.

Her dedication to justice and the rule of law earned her a place in international peacekeeping, serving as a United Nations Police Officer (UNPOL) in Liberia, where she played a pivotal role in internal evaluations and addressing conduct and discipline issues.

Today, she is the most senior lawyer in the Ghana Police Service, having been called to the bar almost 25 years ago.

Commitment to Professional Development

DCOP Donkor’s thirst for knowledge and excellence has led her to participate in numerous professional training programs and workshops worldwide. From attending the United Nations Senior Mission Leaders’ Course in Korea to the International Association of Women Police Officers’ Conferences in Canada, South Africa, and the United States, she has continuously honed her skills.

Her expertise extends to counter-terrorism, anti-human trafficking, money laundering, and election security.

Championing Human Rights and Women’s Empowerment
Beyond her duties in law enforcement, DCOP Donkor is an advocate for human rights and gender equality. She is a proud member of the Ghana Bar Association, the Police Ladies Association, and the International Association of Women Police Officers.