Lydia Donkor warns of public safety risks from counterfeit products

COP Lydia Donkor, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has warned that the influx of counterfeit products poses a severe threat to public safety. Speaking during a meeting with international stakeholders on November 4, 2026, the CID boss emphasized that fake medicines, substandard electrical goods, and unregulated cosmetics are endangering lives across the country. These illicit items have become a significant concern for law enforcement due to their potential for catastrophic consequences.

During the session, which included representatives from major global firms like Apple Inc. and Unilever, Donkor outlined the specific hazards associated with these items. She noted that counterfeit medicines can lead to immediate loss of life, while substandard electrical products are a major cause of domestic fires and physical injuries. Furthermore, she explained that unsafe cosmetics often contain harmful chemical substances that expose unsuspecting consumers to long-term health complications. The CID boss noted that these issues are not merely economic crimes but represent a direct assault on the well-being of the Ghanaian population.

The Director-General highlighted that intellectual property crimes are often the work of highly sophisticated networks engaged in large-scale illegal trade and fraud. To address these complex threats, Donkor called for increased collaboration between the police and the private sector. She stressed that strengthening partnerships with various stakeholders is essential for enhancing the department's investigative capabilities and dismantling the criminal syndicates that profit from these dangerous activities.

As part of its broader strategy, the CID aims to share intelligence and resources with corporate partners to better identify and prosecute those involved in the counterfeit trade. By fostering these alliances, the Ghana Police Service hopes to protect both the integrity of legitimate brands and the health of the general public. Donkor concluded by reiterating that ensuring consumer safety and upholding the law regarding intellectual property remain top priorities for the department in its ongoing fight against organized crime.