In the realm of physical training and discipline in the Ghana Police Service, there exists a remarkable individual who has left an indelible mark on countless lives: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Mr. SYLVANNUS HAFIANYO a.k.a. OKALA. For years, he has served as a dedicated physical trainer and drill instructor at the esteemed Regional Police Training School in Koforidua, shaping and molding the minds and bodies of aspiring law enforcement officers. With unwavering commitment and unparalleled passion, Okala’s influence has transcended the boundaries of a mere instructor; he has become a beacon of inspiration and a guiding light for all those fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
According to his trainees, he is the first person you will dislike or fear when you enter the training school, and he is the first person you will like and cherish when leaving. Guess what happens in between?
A Teacher of Resilience: Okala’s journey as a physical trainer has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a deep understanding of the physical and mental demands of law enforcement, he has fostered a spirit of resilience in every recruit he has trained. Through grueling exercises, he has instilled the value of perseverance, teaching his students that true strength lies not just in physical prowess but also in the tenacity to push beyond their limits. Under his watchful eye, recruits have learned to embrace challenges and emerged as capable individuals, ready to face any obstacle that comes their way.
A Mentor of Integrity: Beyond the physical aspects of training, Okala has been a living embodiment of integrity and ethics. His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and responsibility has been a driving force in shaping the character of his students. By leading through example, he has imparted valuable life lessons, inspiring a generation of law enforcement officers who strive to uphold the highest standards of moral conduct and compassion for their communities.
A Role Model of Dedication: Okala’s dedication to his profession and his students is unparalleled. Whether it is in the early hours of the morning or late into the night, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. His genuine care for the well-being and success of each recruit has earned him the respect and admiration of all who have had the privilege to train under his guidance. He has shown that true dedication goes beyond mere words; it requires consistent action and unwavering support for those entrusted to his care.
A Source of Empowerment: For every individual who has crossed the threshold of the police training school, Okala has been an empowering force. His encouragement and belief in the potential of his students have inspired them to push beyond self-imposed limitations and embrace their true capabilities. The confidence instilled by Okala has not only impacted their performance during training but has also continued to resonate throughout their entire careers, serving as a reminder that they are capable of achieving greatness.
ASP/Mr. Sylvanus Hafianyo hails from Keta in the Volta Region. He joined the Ghana Police Service in 1996 and rose through the ranks to his current status. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and a postgraduate Diploma in Peace and Security Studies. He has 26 years of experience as a trainer, with 7 years at the Winneba Depot and 19 years and counting at the Koforidua Depot. He is arguably one of the very best and longest-serving instructors in the Ghana Police Service. He is a family man and a devoted Christian. Personally, Okala is a very kind, tolerant, and selfless individual.
During recruit training courses, he underscores the fact that recruits are grown-up individuals from different backgrounds, upbringings, and cultures and that it takes extra professionalism and tactics to transform and imbibe in them the ethics and procedures of the police service. To him, the purpose of drills at the training school is to instill discipline, smarts, and alertness in the would-be officers. As a very brilliant and tactical instructor, he believes that trainers must first study and understand the behaviors of each recruit vis-a-vis the tenets or doctrines of becoming a law enforcement officer.
He espoused that drills in the police and security services aim to produce confident, alert, and obedient individuals while teaching teamwork skills. The drill is a crucial skill for security personnel and a foundation for military discipline, and he admonished that the drill should not be used as a punishment but as a means to raise standards within a group of men.
He asserts that the police service’s success relies on an effective relationship with the public, re-establishing public confidence. Hence, it recommends that officers perform their duties lawfully and effectively by adhering to proper Human Rights norms and standards, and ensuring full respect for human rights. He has always stressed the safety of officers, raised concerns about their safety as they are increasingly being killed and maimed, and highlighted how crucial it is for officers to take their safety seriously and not rely on others for assistance.
These among others are the most important aspects of the police training course that he holds so dear and paramount.
It is therefore imperative that such an important figure in the Ghana Police Service, as long as training is concerned is celebrated and honoured not just for his expertise as a physical trainer and drill instructor, but also for the lasting impact he has had on the lives of countless police officers. His tireless dedication, unwavering integrity, and profound ability to empower others have left an indelible mark on the law enforcement community. Through his guidance, recruits have transformed into exemplary officers, spreading his teachings of resilience, integrity, and dedication throughout their careers.
An embodiment of inspiration, a true mentor, and a guiding light. May his influence continue to shine bright in the hearts of all those he has touched, forever reminding them of their immense potential and the power to make a difference in the world.
God bless you, Sir.
Author’s Profile : Abdul-Salam Shaibu is an investigator and Cybersecurity Practitioner. He had his professional training at the Detective Training Academy, Ghana Police Service, as well as a Professional Diploma in Database Management from IPMC. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Engineering from Ghana Communication Technology University and a Master of Science in Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA). A certificate in Cybersecurity Investigations and Digital Forensics at the e-Crime Bureau, among other numerous courses and certifications. He is also a student at the GIMPA Faculty of Law pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree. He is a Businessman and an Entrepreneur. The author’s research interests are in IT, Cybersecurity, Law, Risk Management, Security, and Criminal Psychology.
