Security analyst Andrews Asiedu Tetteh has reacted to the deployment of modern, state-of-the-art security screening equipment at the Kotoka International Airport, describing it as a positive step despite offering some sharp criticism.
He opined that it had taken the country far too long to put the advanced technology in place.
The upgrade, installed at passenger screening checkpoints across Terminals 2 and 3, aims to boost aviation security while significantly improving the overall passenger experience.
Under the new security arrangements, travellers will no longer be required to remove laptops and other large electronic devices from their cabin baggage during screening.
Passengers can also proceed through checkpoints with their footwear and belts on, unless otherwise required during security profiling.
Furthermore, Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) can now remain inside cabin bags, as separate screening for these items will no longer be routinely required.
However, Andrews Asiedu Tetteh argued that for a country that is nearly 70 years old, it would have been most appropriate to have invested in this technology several years ago.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, he stated, “In my candid opinion, this sounds disgraceful despite being a positive step. It is disgraceful for a country like Ghana that is almost 70 years to have now invested in such a technology or bringing this technology to our airport.”
He recounted a personal experience at the airport while seeing someone off, revealing that he was carrying a concealed weapon at the time but managed to go through the security systems without authorities detecting it.
He noted that none of the metal detectors picked up the concealed gun, making him wonder how that was possible, especially when the President and other high-ranking state officials use the same airport.
Nevertheless, he was quick to add that the implementation of the technology was a case of better late than never.
“It is better late than never. If we have new systems, that will improve the systems. From my monitoring and reading, I think this will provide more convenience to the traveller. But it should move beyond the convenience of the traveller to the security of the traveller. That is the most important thing,” he added.
He emphasised that travellers must feel safe, secure, and sound while at the airport, urging the authorities to ensure the equipment is fully optimised.
“We appreciate what they have done. Kudos to the Ghana Airports. But they should beef it up and ensure that the systems there are able to detect all forms of unapproved items. That is crucial,” he urged.
Andrews Asiedu Tetteh asserted that advanced countries have moved away from invasive screening methods, and unless they have a specific reason to scrutinise a passenger further, they will not make them strip down.
He concluded that whilst the convenience enjoyed by travellers in other countries is top-notch, Ghana’s decision to finally adopt the technology remains commendable.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana