Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka has raised alarm over a growing influx of unregistered and untraceable firearms in Ghana, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to national security.
During a working visit to the Northern Region, the Minister described the rise in illegal arms as “alarming,” noting that more civilians are acquiring weapons, often leading to indiscriminate shootings triggered by minor disputes.
“At the least provocation, you hear a gunshot. How did the people get the guns?” he asked, expressing concern over the strain this puts on the Peace Council, police, and security services.
He called for a coordinated national effort to register all firearms, which he said would allow authorities to track and control illegal arms more effectively.
Mr. Muntaka also urged the adoption of technology-based solutions and stronger public-private partnerships to address the crisis.
“Technology today is advanced enough for us to know who is importing and selling these weapons,” he said.
He added that leveraging tech tools is essential to securing the country’s safety.