For the first time since the formation of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, a woman has been appointed as Belfast Area Commander. Chief Superintendent Amanda Ford assumed the post, succeeding Chief Superintendent Jeremy Lindsay.

Ford brings 18 years of policing experience to the role. She joined the PSNI in 2008 and has served in various Local Policing roles across Newry, Mourne and Down, Mid Ulster, and Belfast. Her career includes senior leadership positions in the Operational Support Department and the Executive Office, with portfolios covering Strategic Partnerships, Armed Policing, Protective Services, and Chief of Staff responsibilities. She also contributed to the delivery of the South Armagh Review in 2019.

Women now make up roughly one third of PSNI officers at all ranks, compared to under 13% in 2001, according to data obtained through a freedom of information request.

In a statement, Ford said she was pleased to take on the role and acknowledged the work of her predecessor. She indicated that her priorities would align with the Northern Ireland Policing Plan, focusing on victims, communities, and the workforce. This approach includes supporting victims and vulnerable people, maintaining visible neighbourhood policing, and ensuring officers and staff are properly backed.

Ford highlighted that the PSNI is operating with little financial investment for growth in capability and capacity. She said collaborative working with other organisations and partners would be essential to meet community needs, given the pressures faced by all public services.

She committed to partnership working to address the issues causing the most harm in Belfast, citing violence, exploitation, anti-social behaviour, hate crime, and the impact of drugs and organised criminality. She also stated her intention to visit police stations across the city to hear directly from officers and staff about their concerns.

Ford described Belfast as a vibrant and diverse city and said she looked forward to engaging with stakeholders and partner agencies to keep communities and visitors safe.