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NACSA Ultimatum: Prosecution for Unlawful Firearms Set for January 15 Deadline

In a decisive move to stabilize the nation’s security landscape ahead of a pivotal year, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has issued a final warning to individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms. The Commission is urging the public to utilize the current amnesty window before strict legal consequences take effect.

Introduction

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) remains a critical security challenge globally. In response, Ghana’s National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has activated a national amnesty period to curb this menace. Dr. Adam Bonaa, the Executive Secretary of NACSA, has emphasized that the window for voluntary surrender is closing rapidly. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the amnesty program, the legal implications of non-compliance, and the specific restrictions currently in place regarding firearms and pyrotechnics.

Key Points

Background

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) is the government agency mandated to control the proliferation of illicit small arms in Ghana. Small arms proliferation poses a significant threat to national security, fueling violent crime, chieftaincy conflicts, and political instability. To mitigate these risks, NACSA periodically organizes “Operation Retrieve the Gun,” a voluntary surrender initiative designed to mop up weapons circulating outside legal channels.

The current amnesty period, activated in late 2025, is part of a broader strategy to sanitize the country’s security landscape. It comes at a time when global and regional security dynamics necessitate stricter control over the movement of arms. The initiative targets all categories of deadly weapons, ranging from locally manufactured sidearms and shotguns to sophisticated military-grade hardware, including AK-47s, M16s, and G-series rifles.

Analysis

The “Clean Slate” Policy

One of the most critical aspects of the amnesty is the “clean slate” policy. Dr. Adam Bonaa, in an exclusive interview with PleasureNews, clarified that the Commission is prioritizing weapon retrieval over punishment during the grace period. He stated, “The amnesty is clear that there is no arrest, there is no prosecution, and there is no call for interrogation. There is—you are free. Bring the weapon.”

This approach is pedagogically significant because it addresses the psychological barrier preventing individuals from surrendering weapons. Many owners of illegal firearms fear arrest if they approach authorities. By offering total immunity, NACSA encourages voluntary compliance, which is far more effective than forced confiscation.

Legal Implications of Non-Compliance

After the January 15, 2026 deadline, the legal framework governing arms possession in Ghana will be enforced with full rigor. The Small Arms and Light Weapons Act, 2010 (Act 791) governs these offenses. Under this Act, the unlawful manufacture, importation, exportation, or possession of small arms is a criminal offense.

Dr. Bonaa explicitly warned that defiance will lead to severe penalties: “If you don’t and you are arrested, you will be prosecuted by the law and may be sent to prison for up to 15 years.” This serves as a stark reminder that the state possesses the capacity and the will to enforce the law, utilizing intelligence gathering and police operations to identify illegal stockpiles.

Comprehensive Freeze on Arms Activities

To ensure the effectiveness of the retrieval exercise, NACSA has implemented a comprehensive freeze on arms modernization and trade across all 16 administrative regions and 25 police districts. This freeze includes:

1. Importation Freeze: All import licenses for firearms and ammunition are suspended.
2. Commercial Sale Halt: Authorized retail outlets are prohibited from selling weapons and ammunition during the amnesty period.
3. Usage Restrictions: The discharge of firearms is prohibited, even for celebratory purposes. This is crucial for distinguishing between surrender operations and active criminality.

Practical Advice

If you or someone you know is in possession of an unlicensed firearm, follow these steps to ensure safety and legal compliance:

1. Do Not Transport the Weapon: Do not attempt to carry the weapon to a police station or NACSA office yourself. This can be dangerous and may be misconstrued as a threat.
2. Contact NACSA: Reach out to the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons through their official channels. They have protocols for safe retrieval where officers will come to a designated location to collect the weapon.
3. Secure the Weapon: If immediate retrieval is not possible, ensure the weapon is stored safely and inaccessible to unauthorized persons, especially children.
4. Spread the Word: Share this information with community leaders and family members. The amnesty is a community safety initiative, not just a legal requirement.

FAQ

Conclusion

The window to regularize the possession of small arms in Ghana is rapidly closing. Dr. Adam Bonaa and the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons have made it clear that the January 15, 2026 deadline is non-negotiable. The amnesty offers a unique, risk-free opportunity for individuals to surrender illicit weapons without fear of prosecution. However, once the grace period ends, the state will deploy its full resources to arrest and prosecute offenders, with penalties reaching up to 15 years in prison. Citizens are urged to prioritize safety and legality by taking advantage of this amnesty immediately.

Sources

• National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) – Official mandates on SALW control.
• Small Arms and Light Weapons Act, 2010 (Act 791) – Legal framework for prosecution and sentencing.
• PleasureNews Interview – Statement by Dr. Adam Bonaa, Executive Secretary of NACSA (December 29, 2025).