Auditor-General’s Report Highlights 2,000+ Weapon Interceptions at Ghana’s Airports
Published on January 13, 2026
Introduction
A recent Auditor-General’s report has brought to light significant airport security concerns in Ghana, revealing that over 2,000 weapons and ammunition were intercepted from passengers in 2023 alone. This alarming revelation has sparked intense scrutiny and raised questions about the effectiveness of current airport security protocols and the need for comprehensive policy reforms.
Key Points
- Over 2,000 weapons intercepted at Ghanaian airports in 2023.
- Passengers carrying weapons were allowed to board flights due to the absence of a clear policy.
- Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) officials appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
- New protocols now require passengers to declare weapons to the Aviation Security Department.
- Unlicensed weapons are confiscated and handed over to the National Investigation Bureau (NIB).
Background
The Auditor-General’s Findings
The 2024 Auditor-General’s report has uncovered critical security lapses at Ghana’s airports. The document highlights an “expanding number of guns and ammunition carried by passengers,” a trend that has raised serious concerns among lawmakers and security experts.
Parliamentary Scrutiny
Officials from the Ghana Airport Company Limited (GACL) recently appeared before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to address these findings. Vice Chairman of the PAC, Samuel Atta-Mills, expressed grave concerns over the lack of a standardized policy for handling passengers carrying weapons.
Analysis
Security Protocols and Policy Gaps
The audit findings point to a significant vulnerability in Ghana’s airport security framework. Historically, when a passenger was found with a weapon, it was separated and stored in a secure area until the passenger’s flight departed. However, this approach lacked a formalized policy, leading to potential security risks.
Current Protocols
Under the new directives, any passenger carrying a weapon must declare it to the Aviation Security Department. If the weapon is licensed, the passenger may travel with it. If unlicensed, the weapon is confiscated and handed over to the National Investigation Bureau (NIB). Even licensed weapons are confiscated if the passenger fails to declare them upon arrival at the airport.
Practical Advice
For Travelers
- Declare all weapons to the Aviation Security Department upon arrival.
- Ensure that any weapons carried are properly licensed.
- Be aware of the legal implications of carrying unlicensed weapons.
For Authorities
- Implement standardized policies for handling passengers with weapons.
- Enhance security training for airport personnel.
- Strengthen collaboration with the National Investigation Bureau (NIB).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main finding of the Auditor-General’s report?
The report revealed that over 2,000 weapons and ammunition were intercepted at Ghana’s airports in 2023.
What is the current protocol for passengers carrying weapons?
Passengers must declare any weapons to the Aviation Security Department. Licensed weapons may be carried, while unlicensed weapons are confiscated and handed over to the NIB.
What are the legal implications of carrying unlicensed weapons?
Carrying unlicensed weapons can result in confiscation, legal penalties, and potential criminal charges.
Conclusion
The Auditor-General’s report has shed light on critical security concerns at Ghana’s airports. The interception of over 2,000 weapons in 2023 underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policy reforms and enhanced security measures. By implementing standardized protocols and strengthening collaboration with security agencies, Ghana can significantly improve airport security and ensure the safety of all passengers.
Leave a comment