Mr Asante Gyebi, the acting director of research, planning, monitoring, and evaluation at the Small Arms Commission, has announced that following the conclusion of the gun amnesty period, the next phase will focus on pursuing individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms.
He reiterated that civilians voluntarily surrendered over 4,000 firearms during the recent exercise.
This initiative is a key component of Ghana’s broader strategy to bolster national security, curb the proliferation of illegal weapons, and minimise the risks associated with firearm misuse.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, he explained that the surrendered weapons fell into two categories: Licensing Requests: The majority of individuals turned in their weapons with the hope of officially licensing them.
Forfeiture: Others surrendered their weapons permanently; these firearms are slated for destruction.
Mr Gyebi stated that the grace period for voluntary compliance has passed, and enforcement will now intensify.
“Just as the minister disclosed, more than 4,000 guns were surrendered. The majority of them wanted to be granted the opportunity to license their guns, while the others forfeited theirs. For those who forfeited their guns, those guns would be destroyed. We had also announced that the police will go after all those who own unlicensed guns.
They recently arrested some individuals at Dodowa who claimed to be bodyguards working with unlicensed guns. The police will continue to go after such people. Soon, the minister will also announce new measures,” he stated.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
