Search Results

The Ghana Police Service has stepped up its nationwide crackdown on cybercrime, violent offences and organised robbery, resulting in multiple arrests through coordinated intelligence-led operations. Addressing a press briefing at the National Police Headquarters in Accra, the Director-General of the Public Affairs Directorate (PAD), DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, disclosed that the operations—led by the Inspector-General of Police’s Special Cyber Vetting and Enforcement Team and the Anti-Armed Robbery Unit—have yielded significant breakthroughs. She revealed that two suspects were arrested for allegedly creating and circulating AI-generated deepfake content targeting President John Dramani Mahama and the First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama. The suspects, identified as Bernard Mensah, also known as “Charity Quaicoe,” and Michael Ebo Safo, were apprehended on March 28, 2026, following digital forensic investigations. According to DCOP Ansah-Akrofi, the suspects used manipulated videos and impersonation accounts on Facebook, TikTok and WhatsApp to defraud unsuspecting members of the public through coordinated disinformation campaigns. In a separate development, she noted that police also arrested 49-year-old John Kwabena Owusu-Ansah for issuing threats against a High Court judge in a viral video. The arrest followed a petition by the Judicial Service after the video, which contained threats and abusive language against Justice Patricia Quansah, gained widespread circulation online. The Police further made a breakthrough in a murder case in the Eastern Region, arresting Eric Kenny, 40, in connection with the killing of Enoch Obiri at Soronko Farms near Obomofodensua in the Suhum Municipality. Investigations indicate the suspect allegedly attacked the deceased over a domestic dispute before going into hiding. Additionally, four suspects have been arrested in connection with a string of armed robberies targeting jewellery shops in Accra and Takoradi between April and October 2025. The suspects—Abdul Aziz Mamoud (alias Justin Martin), Abubakar Mamoud, Edgar Donkor and Donatus Donkor—were picked up at Anyaa and Osu on March 24, 2026. DCOP Ansah-Akrofi identified Abdul Aziz Mamoud, an American national, as the alleged mastermind behind the robbery operations, which involved smashing glass display units and making away with jewellery worth millions of cedis. Items retrieved from the suspects include a toy pistol, motorbikes, masks, gloves and jewellery casings linked to the crime scenes. She added that the suspects have reportedly admitted to the crimes and have provided leads on an alleged receiver of the stolen items, who is currently being pursued by police. DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi commended officers for their professionalism and thanked the public for their support, urging citizens to remain vigilant, verify information before sharing, and report suspicious activities. She reaffirmed the Ghana Police Service’s commitment to maintaining law and order, assuring that all perpetrators of crime will be brought to justice. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially announced the departure of Black Stars Head Coach Otto Addo, bringing his tenure to an immediate end. In a statement released on Tuesday, the Association confirmed that the decision takes effect immediately, marking a significant shift in the technical direction of Ghana’s senior national team. The GFA expressed appreciation for Otto Addo’s service and contribution during his time in charge of the Black Stars, acknowledging his efforts in guiding the team through key assignments. “The Association wishes to thank Otto Addo sincerely for his contribution to the team and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavours,” the statement said. While details surrounding the decision were not disclosed, the GFA indicated that plans are underway to chart a new course for the team, with further communication on the Black Stars’ technical direction expected in due course. Otto Addo’s exit signals a new phase for the Black Stars as the Association looks to rebuild and reposition the team ahead of upcoming competitions. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Nii Kotey Ashie , has delivered a strong message to religious groups in Greater Accra, urging strict compliance with the upcoming ban on drumming and noise-making as part of preparations for the 2026 Homowo festivities. Addressing the media at the official announcement by the Ga Traditional Council  in Accra on Thursday, the MP emphasized that while the Ga people are known for their peaceful and accommodating nature, that disposition must not be mistaken for weakness. “GAs are peaceful and loving people. We are appealing to the Christian and Muslim community in Greater Accra to adhere to the rules and regulations when the ban on drumming and noise-making takes full effect from May 4 to June 4,” he stated. He issued a firm caution against any form of defiance, stressing, “Don’t take our leniency as our weakness,” and warning that authorities will not tolerate violations that could disrupt the sanctity of the period. The annual ban, which precedes the revered Homowo Festival , is a longstanding cultural observance aimed at fostering peace, discipline, and spiritual reflection across Ga State. Nii Kotey Ashie also addressed concerns about enforcement, noting that the goal is not to create tension between authorities and religious institutions. “We do not want to see or hear of situations where task forces will end up harassing churches or mosques,” he said, urging voluntary compliance to avoid confrontations. He further cautioned against the mischaracterisation of the ban as a fetish practice, describing such claims as misguided and rooted in ignorance. “Ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” he stressed, adding that the observance is a legitimate cultural requirement that deserves the same respect accorded to traditions of other communities. Drawing parallels with mutual coexistence, the MP noted that many churches and mosques respect customs in other parts of the country, and therefore should reciprocate that respect within the Ga State. To ensure widespread awareness and compliance, he revealed that an agreement has been reached with city authorities to intensify public education. According to him, public address (PA) systems will be deployed across communities to continuously remind residents, churches, and mosques of the need to adhere to the directive. “We will make sure that everyone observes the ban on drumming and noise-making so that we will have a peaceful observation,” he assured. The ban was formally announced by Nii Ayikoi Otoo , President of the Ga-Dangme Council, who underscored its cultural and spiritual significance in the lead-up to one of the most important festivals of the Ga people. He explained that the directive is essential in preserving the sanctity of the season, allowing for reflection and traditional rites that culminate in the celebration of Homowo. As the countdown to the 2026 Homowo Festival begins, authorities and traditional leaders are calling for cooperation from all residents to ensure that the sacred period is observed peacefully and respectfully. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Ghanaian Visual Artist, Ibrahim Mahama has expressed strong confidence in the ongoing police investigation into his alleged assault, stating that he believes justice will ultimately prevail. Mr. Mahama made the remarks after meeting with the Police Management Board at the Ghana Police Service Headquarters in Accra, as authorities intensify investigations into the incident reported on March 21. The alleged assault is said to involve a group believed to be part of the Inspector General of Police’s Special Operations Team, popularly known as the “Black Maria.” “I am confident that justice will be served,” Mahama stated, citing assurances he received from the Inspector General of Police that the matter will be thoroughly investigated and brought to its logical conclusion. He emphasized that his relationship with the police has generally been positive, noting that officers have often shown interest in his cultural projects. However, he maintained that accountability must be ensured for those involved in the alleged incident. Meanwhile, the Director-General, Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, Grace Ansah-Akrofi, has reaffirmed the Police Administration’s commitment to a thorough and transparent investigation. According to her, the Inspector General of Police has directed the Police Professional Standards Bureau to undertake both criminal and professional conduct investigations concurrently. She added that while the Regional Command has already made progress—taking statements and visiting the scene—the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters has now been tasked to take over and expedite the process. DCOP Ansah-Akrofi also underscored Mahama’s cooperation with the police, describing him as a “Friend of the Police” who has consistently supported police operations, including providing escorts when needed. She appealed for calm, assuring the public that any officer found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the law, while updates will be provided as investigations continue. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

The Ga Traditional Council  has formally announced a ban on drumming and noise-making across the Ga State from May 4 to June 4, 2026, as part of preparations for the annual Homowo Festival . The directive, delivered in Accra by Nii Ayikoi Otoo , President of the Ga-Dangme Council, underscores the importance of preserving the spiritual significance of the period, which precedes one of the most important cultural festivals of the Ga people. He explained that the ban is intended to create an atmosphere of peace, discipline, and solemn reflection. During the one-month period, a wide range of activities categorised as noise-making will be prohibited. These include the use of microphones, clapping, tambourines, drumming, and other musical instruments, particularly during religious services and public gatherings. Religious bodies—especially churches and other worship centres—have been specifically directed to conduct their activities strictly within their premises. The use of outdoor loudspeakers, megaphones, and roadside evangelism has been banned, as authorities seek to minimise disruptions within communities. Although the directive covers the entire Ga State, the Council noted that individual traditional areas such as Osu, La, Teshie, Nungua, Tema, Prampram, and Kpone will announce their respective timelines and modalities after the official commencement date. To ensure full compliance, a joint task force comprising members of the Regional Security Council and the Ghana Police Service  will be deployed across affected areas. The task force will monitor adherence and enforce the directive, with offenders facing arrest and possible prosecution. The Council emphasised that the annual ban is not arbitrary but rooted in tradition and safeguarded under Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which recognises and protects customary practices and cultural heritage. Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II , issued a strong caution, declaring that authorities will not hesitate to deal decisively with individuals or groups who flout the directive, stressing the need for respect for Ga customs and traditions. Supporting the directive, Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo , made it clear that no one will be shielded from the law. She warned that any person who disregards the ban and is arrested should expect to face the full rigours of the law without political or administrative interference. Accra Mayor, Michael Nii Kpakpo Allotey , also commended the Ga Traditional Council for what he described as an early and proactive announcement. According to him, the advance notice gives residents, institutions, and religious bodies ample time to adjust their activities in line with the directive. He further warned that violators would face the full force of both customary sanctions and state laws. Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Nii Kotey Ashie , has appealed to both Muslim and Christian communities to cooperate fully with the directive. He urged religious leaders and their congregations to demonstrate respect for the traditions of the Ga people by adhering strictly to the ban. He cautioned that individuals who defy the directive risk being summoned before the Traditional Council and subjected to its sanctions, in addition to any legal consequences imposed by the state. The Council ultimately called on residents, businesses, and visitors within the Ga State to observe the ban in good faith, stressing that cooperation is essential to maintaining harmony and upholding a long-standing cultural tradition that remains central to the identity of the Ga people. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

A week-long field assessment by the Ghana Boundary Commission (GBC) has confirmed growing concerns over deteriorating boundary infrastructure and the difficult living conditions facing several communities along Ghana’s western frontier. The exercise, led by Commissioner-General Major General Anthony Ntem, covered key border areas within the Dormaa Central and Jaman South Municipalities, where officials conducted on-the-ground inspections and engaged local stakeholders. Findings from the exercise validated earlier reports by officers of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), which had highlighted the poor state of some international boundary pillars. According to the Commission, while a number of the pillars remain intact, several others have been displaced, damaged, or defaced. The causes, officials say, range from human interference to environmental factors—developments that could pose risks to effective boundary demarcation and border security. The situation is particularly significant given the ongoing joint reaffirmation exercise between Ghana and neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, which involves the replacement and restoration of boundary markers along their shared land border. However, officials noted that the current phase of the exercise has not yet reached the affected municipalities in the Bono Region. The Commission expressed optimism that the damaged pillars identified during the assessment would be addressed in Phase Three of the Joint Reaffirmation Exercise. Beyond infrastructure concerns, the exercise also revealed troubling socio-economic conditions in the border communities. A human security needs assessment conducted by the team showed that many of the settlements lack basic social amenities, underscoring the development challenges confronting residents. Communities such as Gonokrom, Kofi Badukrom, Kwamesiekrom, Drobo, Batia, Atuna, and Kwameprakrom all echoed similar concerns—limited access to essential services and a pressing need for development interventions despite their strategic importance to national security. As part of the exercise, the Commission held a series of stakeholder engagements, including meetings with the Bono Regional Minister, Municipal Chief Executives, Municipal Security Councils, traditional authorities, and local residents. The interactions, according to officials, provided valuable insight into the lived realities of border communities and reinforced the importance of integrating development priorities into border management strategies. The Ghana Boundary Commission says the findings highlight the urgent need for sustained investment in both boundary maintenance and community development, stressing that safeguarding Ghana’s territorial integrity must go hand in hand with improving livelihoods in frontier areas. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) has emerged victorious in the maiden edition of the Forestry Commission Debate Competition, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s growing reputation for academic excellence and public speaking. The competition, held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Forestry Commission Auditorium in Accra, formed part of activities to commemorate the International Day of Forests 2026. It was organised by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Forestry Commission under the global theme, “Forests and Economies.” UPSA faced off against the University of Ghana in a keenly contested debate on the motion: “The economic value of forests should be measured solely in terms of timber and non-timber forest products.” Arguing against the motion, the UPSA team delivered a compelling case that the value of forests extends beyond extractive resources to include environmental, social and economic benefits. The winning team comprised Mr. Richard Gamli Graham, a Level 400 Bachelor of Laws student and President of the UPSA Debate Club; Mr. Kelvin Kwami Ofosu, a Level 400 Information Technology student; and Miss Yomle Sika Padi-Narh, a Level 200 Bachelor of Laws student. Their performance earned them a score of 81 percent, narrowly defeating the University of Ghana Debate Club, which scored 78 percent. The judges unanimously endorsed UPSA as winners of the competition. For their achievement, the team received a prize package including GH¢20,000, a trophy, a plaque, a Samsung tablet, certificates and branded souvenirs from the Forestry Commission. The victory is particularly notable as it crowns UPSA as the inaugural champions of the debate competition, setting the pace for future editions. Following the win, the team presented the trophy to the Vice-Chancellor of UPSA, Professor John Kwaku Mensah Mawutor. He commended the students for their outstanding performance and urged them to build on their success, describing them as worthy ambassadors of the university. The debate also underscored the broader significance of the International Day of Forests, observed globally on March 21 following its proclamation by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of forests and promoting sustainable management practices. This year’s theme, “Forests and Economies,” highlights the critical role forests play in supporting livelihoods, generating employment, facilitating trade and sustaining food systems. Globally, forests contribute trillions of dollars to economies and support billions of people. In Ghana, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Forestry Commission continue to leverage the annual commemoration to intensify public education on forest conservation and promote tree planting initiatives aimed at safeguarding the country’s natural resources. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a sharp critique of the administration of President John Dramani Mahama, arguing that the government has failed to build on what it describes as a recovering economy inherited in January 2025. At a press briefing on March 24, 2026, the NPP’s Director of Communications said the Mahama-led administration has instead reversed key gains made prior to the transition, leading to worsening living conditions for many Ghanaians. Framing the briefing around what he called a “critical national question,” the NPP asked what the current government inherited and how it has managed the economy since assuming office. According to the party, macroeconomic indicators at the end of 2024 pointed to recovery rather than collapse, citing a decline in inflation from over 54 percent in December 2022 to the mid-20 percent range, GDP growth exceeding 3 percent, and relative stability of the Ghana cedi. The NPP argued that these trends reflected fiscal discipline, improved reserves and policy interventions under the previous administration. However, the party contends that these gains have not translated into improved living standards under the current government. It pointed to rising fuel prices, increasing cost of living, and persistent youth unemployment as evidence of what it described as a disconnect between macroeconomic data and everyday realities. On the cocoa sector, the NPP accused the government of mismanaging a window of opportunity presented by high global prices in 2025. It alleged that the Ghana Cocoa Board failed to secure favourable forward sales and subsequently imposed a price reduction that has negatively impacted farmers’ incomes. The party said the move has had serious implications for rural livelihoods and export revenues, while also criticising government’s response to calls by stakeholders, including religious leaders, to reverse the decision. Youth employment was another major concern raised at the briefing. The NPP argued that the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy has yet to yield tangible results, despite campaign promises of large-scale job creation. It further questioned claims by President Mahama that over one million jobs were created in 2025, citing data it said suggests significantly lower figures. The party also linked recent increases in fuel prices to what it described as weak economic management, noting that while global geopolitical tensions may play a role, governments are expected to implement measures to cushion citizens from such shocks. On environmental governance, the NPP claimed illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, has worsened, with increased reports of water pollution and weak enforcement. I It said this falls short of expectations set by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) while in opposition. The briefing also highlighted tensions between government and organised labour, pointing to a series of industrial actions by various public sector unions as a sign of strained relations and declining confidence. Additionally, the NPP raised concerns about governance and ethics, citing allegations of conflicts of interest involving individuals close to the presidency. It argued that such perceptions, whether proven or not, risk undermining public trust and accountability. Despite the criticisms, the party commended the Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, for what it described as efforts to advocate for cocoa farmers and hold the government accountable. The NPP concluded that while Ghana entered 2025 on a path of economic recovery, the current administration has failed to sustain the momentum, urging Ghanaians to closely assess the government’s performance and its impact on their daily lives. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Government of Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to ending tuberculosis (TB) through sustained investments, stronger partnerships and expanded access to healthcare services, as the nation marked World TB Day 2026 under the global theme: “Yes! We Can End TB: Led by Countries, Powered by People.” Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Health, Deputy Minister Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah described tuberculosis as “a major public health concern that continues to affect many Ghanaians,” stressing that gaps in case detection remain a significant challenge in the national response. She underscored the urgent need to identify undiagnosed cases and ensure prompt treatment to curb transmission, noting that government has stepped up efforts to strengthen diagnostic capacity across the country. According to her, the procurement of 15 GeneXpert machines and 10 AI-enabled digital X-ray systems, alongside other accessories valued at nearly GHS 30 million, forms part of measures to enhance early detection and treatment. Dr. Ayensu Danquah further highlighted the Free Primary Healthcare Programme as a game-changer that will expand access to TB services at the community level, improve early diagnosis and ultimately boost treatment outcomes. She also emphasized the critical role of community engagement and praised partnerships such as the Netherlands Government–Oreo collaboration, which has supported the installation of 50 TB screening machines nationwide. In his welcome address, Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, reiterated that tuberculosis is both preventable and curable, calling for sustained collective action to eliminate the disease. He commended health workers and development partners for their dedication, which has contributed to increased TB case detection in recent years. Drawing inspiration from global icons such as Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, Dr. Akoriyea stressed the importance of early diagnosis and strict adherence to treatment, expressing optimism that ongoing health sector reforms will accelerate progress toward a TB-free Ghana. Chairing the event, Vice Chair of the Stop TB Partnership UNOPS in Geneva, Barrister Chief Austin Arinze Obiefuna, described tuberculosis as one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases but acknowledged Ghana’s steady progress over the past two decades. He commended the government and its partners for their strong commitment, while calling for intensified domestic resource mobilisation, stronger political leadership, deeper community involvement and increased investment in innovation to fast-track elimination efforts. Providing a technical overview, Programme Manager of the National TB Control Programme, Dr. Bernard Ziem, noted that although treatment success rates remain high, case detection continues to fall below expected targets. He cautioned that while ending TB is achievable, progress remains slow and requires more aggressive strategies, particularly in active case finding and expanding diagnostic services. Development partners, including the World Health Organization, The Aurum Institute, Stop TB Partnership and TB Voice Network, reaffirmed their continued support, highlighting Ghana’s progress, including a 21 percent reduction in TB incidence, while urging sustained investment and coordinated action to further reduce the burden of the disease. As part of the commemoration, the Deputy Minister officially handed over the newly procured diagnostic equipment to the National TB Control Programme, marking a significant step in Ghana’s renewed push to eliminate tuberculosis. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith and Hawa Abubakar

Col. Dominic Buah, Director of Operations at the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), has issued a strong and uncompromising warning to illegal miners, declaring that the state will intensify its crackdown on galamsey activities across the country. Speaking to the media on Wednesday in Accra, Col. Buah praised the Blue Water Guards for their “exceptionally well” performance in safeguarding Ghana’s water bodies, revealing that the task force has been actively seizing and destroying equipment used in illegal mining operations, particularly along riverine areas. He explained that the Guards have demonstrated increasing capacity in enforcement, often acting decisively to halt illegal activities, confiscate machinery, and prevent further environmental degradation. According to him, their efforts are already yielding results, especially in curbing operations that threaten major water sources. Col. Buah disclosed that NAIMOS is currently working to further empower the Blue Water Guards through continuous training, improved coordination, and enhanced intelligence systems. He stressed the importance of information-sharing from local communities, noting that such collaboration is critical in tracking and dismantling illegal mining networks. Touching on the controversial destruction of “chamfas”—machines commonly used in illegal mining—he clarified that while such equipment may have alternative industrial uses, any found in proximity to water bodies or directly linked to galamsey activities will be destroyed. He added that the Environmental Protection Agency Ghana (EPA) has secured the necessary legal backing to also target and demolish fabrication centres producing such machinery. He further indicated that NAIMOS operations are heavily concentrated on water bodies and river systems, where illegal mining poses the greatest environmental risk. In such zones, he noted, the presence of equipment or fabrication activities is treated as clear intent to engage in galamsey, warranting swift enforcement action. Col. Buah emphasized that the ongoing operations remain a “work in progress,” but assured the public that authorities will continue to act decisively, including removing harmful chemicals, dismantling illegal setups, and addressing the involvement of foreign nationals in illicit mining activities. Delivering a stern caution, he warned that illegal miners—regardless of their role as financiers, operators, or facilitators—will be treated as enemies of the state if they persist. He urged families and communities to advise their relatives involved in galamsey to desist and instead embrace responsible and regulated mining practices. “Rest assured,” he stressed, “the waterways will be protected, and NAIMOS will deal ruthlessly with galamseyers.” Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Lincoln University  has withdrawn its decision to confer an honorary doctorate on Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama , just hours before his scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Ghana’s Embassy in the United States expressed deep disappointment over the last-minute decision, noting that it followed concerns raised by a group within the university regarding the president’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely referred to as the anti-gay bill currently before Parliament. According to the embassy, the concerns were not raised during earlier vetting and due diligence processes, despite what it described as extensive engagement between both parties. Officials had already completed a full walkthrough and finalised all logistical arrangements ahead of the planned visit. “It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the president already in the United States,” the embassy said in a statement. The mission emphasised that President Mahama accepted the honour in good faith, following an official invitation from the university, which shares historic ties with Ghana, including its association with Kwame Nkrumah . While acknowledging the university’s right to uphold its values and consult stakeholders, the embassy stressed that the issues raised relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana and do not represent the position of any single individual. Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, the embassy expressed hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would guide a fair and balanced resolution. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) has recorded significant operational and institutional gains within one year under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Samuel Basintale Amadu, following his appointment in March 2025. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Immigration in charge of the Public Affairs Department, Maud Anima Quainoo, the Service’s transformation agenda has focused on strengthening border security, enhancing operational efficiency, and modernising systems to improve service delivery. She noted that the CGI’s mandate, following his vetting by the Public Services Commission, has been centred on safeguarding Ghana’s territorial integrity, promoting intelligence-led operations, deepening inter-agency collaboration, and dismantling transnational criminal networks, particularly those involved in smuggling and human trafficking. Maud Anima Quainoo disclosed that the GIS generated over GH¢546 million in revenue within the past year, driven largely by reforms in visa and permit processing systems. A total of 186,959 permits and visas were issued, representing a 32.5 percent increase compared to the previous year. She attributed the growth to ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and automation, which have reduced processing times and improved transparency. Additionally, the Service successfully managed over 2.8 million passenger movements across Ghana’s entry points without major incidents, contributing to the success of national initiatives such as the “December in Ghana” tourism campaign. On enforcement, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted major successes in combating smuggling and illegal activities through coordinated operations involving various GIS departments. She revealed that the Service intercepted significant quantities of contraband, including 1,401 bags and jerrycans of smuggled cocoa beans, 1,398 packs of Tramadol, 88 parcels of suspected Indian hemp, 725 rounds of ammunition, and other illicit goods. In addition, 909 individuals were intercepted at various entry points, while a nationwide enforcement exercise involving 7,204 facility inspections led to the arrest of 3,533 persons for immigration-related offences. Maud Anima Quainoo further stated that the GIS has enhanced its intelligence and legal operations, processing 666 intelligence requests in collaboration with partner agencies — a 3.9 percent increase from the previous year. The Service prosecuted 29 cases and secured 28 convictions, including offences related to illegal entry, fraud schemes such as QNET operations, and cybercrime. Meanwhile, the Document Fraud Expertise Centre examined 932 suspected cases, with 35.2 percent confirmed as fraudulent. The Deputy Commissioner emphasised the Service’s commitment to human capital development, noting that over 970 officers received specialised training both locally and internationally in areas such as counter-terrorism, crisis management, and border security. She added that the GIS, in collaboration with the Youth Employment Agency and the National Ambulance Service, trained Community-based Medical First Responders (CMFRs) in three cohorts during 2025. Further initiatives included a Trainer of Trainers programme in partnership with the European Union Security and Defence Initiative, as well as specialised unarmed combat (Krav Maga) training to enhance officer safety following recent attacks on personnel. Infrastructure Development and International Cooperation Maud Anima Quainoo indicated that the Service has embarked on infrastructure expansion projects in key locations, including Tema, Kumasi, Tamale, Sunyani, Cape Coast, Sekondi-Takoradi, and Damango, aimed at improving operational efficiency and decentralisation. On the international front, she said the GIS has strengthened partnerships with organisations such as the International Organization for Migration, and engaged with delegations from the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre, as well as immigration authorities from Rwanda, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. Looking ahead, the Deputy Commissioner disclosed that the Service is advancing reforms under “Project SECOBOR” (Secure Our Borders), a public-private partnership initiative designed to address gaps in logistics, surveillance, and infrastructure. Additional measures under consideration include the establishment of a private mutual health insurance scheme and a staff endowment fund to enhance welfare and institutional sustainability. She stressed that the progress made over the past year has repositioned the Ghana Immigration Service as a more responsive, technology-driven, and intelligence-led institution. “While challenges remain within the evolving global security landscape, the gains achieved under CGI Samuel Basintale Amadu provide a solid foundation for the future,” Maud Anima Quainoo stated. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith