By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA
Sege, Sept. 18, GNA – Mr Richard Kumadoe, a Security Intelligence and Fraud Prevention Consultant, has stressed the importance of applying the principles of “Need to Know” and “Need to Share” in the handling and dissemination of sensitive intelligence.
Mr Kumadoe said sensitive data, operational information and strategic investigative intelligence should not be shared indiscriminately but disseminated based on the circumstances, purpose and level of access required.
Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), he disclosed that the ability of intelligence professionals to determine what information should be shared, with whom and at what stage was essential to effective intelligence operations.
“Sensitive data, relevant operational information, and strategic investigative intelligence will mostly be shared, transmitted, disseminated, and passed on on the critical basis of the ‘Need to Know’ and the ‘Need to Share’,” he said.
He explained that the principles apply across the local, regional and global security intelligence environment, particularly in situations involving sensitive investigations, operations and national security interests.
Mr Kumadoe said although cooperation among security agencies and international partners was important, countries could, in certain circumstances, initiate and conclude criminal investigations independently.
He noted that cooperation, coordination and communication among security agencies and international counterparts could enhance investigations, particularly in cases involving cross-border criminal activities.
He, however, said there were situations where independent action could be necessary, especially when investigations involved classified information or highly sensitive national interests.
“Acting alone can also achieve the required results, especially in instances of dealing with classified information,” he said.
Mr Kumadoe said intelligence professionals must therefore strike a balance between information sharing and information protection to safeguard investigations, privacy and national security interests.
He said respect for national sovereignty and the protection of national interests remained important considerations in intelligence operations, adding that the indiscriminate circulation of sensitive information could compromise investigations and security operations.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA