AI in Policing: Assessing the Readiness of the Ghana Police Service

Abstract

The global advancement and accessibility of technologies such as the Internet—particularly AI—has led to an increase in unlawful behaviour, putting the public at serious risk and accelerating the rise in organized crime (Racoveanu, 2024). This calls for the urgent need for security forces to integrate AI into their policing strategies. This study, therefore, utilized the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model to ascertain the readiness of the Ghana Police Service to utilize AI in its activities. Qualitative research methodology was used in the study and gathered data from 25 respondents across six regions in Ghana. The study indicates that although there are a few enablers, such as leadership support, the ongoing digitalization drive, and greater consciousness of the promise brought by AI, there are also some hurdles that are present and still linger, such as lack of budget policy gap, skills gap, and ethics. The study reveals that the GPS is at the early stage of readiness for AI adoption. The study recommends AI training and capacity building, policy and regulatory frameworks for AI usage, AI-compatible digital Infrastructure investment, and public and institutional awareness campaigns as parameters to enhance the readiness of the GPS for AI adoption.