DOP. BOB-DERY VISITS KUMASI CENTRAL PRISONS.

The Director of Prisons incharge of Operations and Facility Management, DOP. Benedict Bob-Dery, on Tuesday 30th December, 2025, paid a working visit to the Kumasi Central Prison as part of his oversight duties for the Ashanti region. The visit focused on officer security, social media, discipline and inmate welfare.

The visit commenced with a durbar with officers held at the facility’s chapel. The durbar was attended by the Officer-In-Charge/Regional Commander, DDP. James B. Mwinyelle (Ing), the Second-in-Command ADP. Courage Atsem, a section of senior and junior officers.

In his address, DOP. Bob-Dery tackled pressing disciplinary issues, with the abuse of social media by officers topping the agenda. He underscored the need for personnel to maintain professionalism online, warning against actions that could tarnish the image of the service. The Director also reiterated the importance of adhering to official dress codes, emphasizing that smart and proper uniforms are fundamental to discipline, public perception, and operational security.

After his engagement with officers, DOP. Bob-Dery moved to interact with the inmates. He listened to their concerns regarding their living conditions and discussed ongoing governmental strategies aimed at decongesting the overpopulated central facility. He assured inmates of management’s efforts in enhancing their welfare and rehabilitation, citing the Inmates RunWay Fashion Show organized on Monday as a conduit for effective reintegration.

DOP. Dery, who holds direct oversight responsibility for the Ashanti Region, stated that the visit was part of a broader agenda to connect with personnel and inmates on the ground.

He further announced his intention to visit other prison facilities within the region. This move, he explained, is to ensure consistent standards, address unique operational challenges, and foster morale throughout the regional command.

The visit serves as a significant step in addressing internal disciplinary challenges while pushing forward with crucial reforms through the Think Prisons 360 Degrees initiative.

Source: Ashanti Regional Public Affairs Unit.