Meet The New CID Director-General Lydia Donkor

DCOP Lydia Yaako Donkor has been appointed as the new Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

Her appointment is part of recent high-level reassignments within the service, announced by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno. A statement issued on March 19, 2025, by the Public Affairs Directorate of the Police Service confirmed that the changes take immediate effect.

With a distinguished career in law enforcement, legal practice, and human rights advocacy, DCOP Donkor has been instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that enhance justice and law enforcement efficiency in Ghana. Her extensive experience spans various roles, including serving as Head of Legal & Prosecutions in multiple regions, Divisional Commander of Tesano, and District Commander of Tesano-Accra.

Her commitment to justice and the rule of law also led her to serve as a United Nations Police Officer (UNPOL) in Liberia, contributing to internal evaluations and disciplinary processes. As the most senior lawyer in the Ghana Police Service, having been called to the bar nearly 25 years ago, she brings an unmatched depth of legal expertise to her new role.

DCOP Donkor is an alumna of Wesley Girls Senior High School and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and Political Science from the University of Ghana, Legon. She further earned a Barrister-at-Law qualification from the Ghana School of Law and a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in International and Human Rights Law from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom.

Her professional journey began as an Associate at Acquah-Sampson & Associates, where she specialized in litigation and legal drafting. She also provided pro bono legal representation for marginalized communities through the Legal Aid Board in Takoradi, championing gender and children’s rights.

Dedicated to continuous professional development, DCOP Donkor has participated in numerous international training programs and workshops, including the United Nations Senior Mission Leaders’ Course in Korea and conferences by the International Association of Women Police Officers in Canada, South Africa, and the United States. She has expertise in counter-terrorism, anti-human trafficking, money laundering, and election security, making her a well-rounded leader in modern policing strategies.

Beyond her contributions to law enforcement, DCOP Donkor is a passionate advocate for human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment. She is a proud member of the Ghana Bar Association, the Police Ladies Association, and the International Association of Women Police Officers.

She also serves as Chairperson of the Safety & Security Committee of the Ghana Football Association and as a Safety and Security Officer for the Confederation of African Football (CAF), where she ensures the safety of players, fans, and officials during continental matches. Additionally, she is the CEO of the Police Ladies Football Club, a strong contender in the Ghana Women’s Premier League.

Currently, DCOP Donkor serves as the Director-General of the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB), where she continues to uphold professionalism and integrity within the Ghana Police Service.

Her appointment as CID Director-General reflects the confidence in her leadership and ability to drive efficiency and accountability within the department. As she assumes this new role, she is expected to bring her wealth of experience, dedication, and passion for justice to strengthen criminal investigations and ensure law and order in Ghana.