The nationwide Gun Amnesty Programme has resulted in the surrender of 4,038 unregistered firearms, marking a milestone in efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit weapons and enhance public safety across the country.
The Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, said this on Tuesday during a press briefing in Accra.
He described the programme as a major achievement in the government’s commitment to strengthening peace, security and public safety.
According to the Minister, the initiative was introduced with a clear and urgent objective of addressing the threat posed by unregistered and illicit firearms to lives, livelihoods and national development.
“Government initiated the Gun Amnesty Programme with a clear and urgent objective to confront the threats posed by unregistered and illicit firearms. At the same time, we recognised that sustainable security requires more than enforcement. It demands trust, dialogue and the provision of a lawful pathway for citizens to regularise their conduct without fear,” he said.
Mr Muntaka noted that the surrender of over 4,000 firearms demonstrates the patriotism and civic responsibility of Ghanaians who chose compliance over lawlessness.
“A total of 4,038 unregistered firearms were surrendered to the Ghana Police Service. This outcome reflects the patriotism, responsibility and civic commitment of Ghanaians. The nation is safer today because of your actions,” he stated.
The Minister expressed gratitude to traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and community groups whose advocacy and public education efforts contributed significantly to the success of the programme.
He stressed that while the amnesty programme had ended, government’s efforts to address illegal firearms would continue through stronger enforcement measures.
“The conclusion of the Gun Amnesty Programme marks not an end, but a transition from voluntary compliance to full and robust enforcement of the law. The amnesty was a temporary window of grace. That window is now closed,” he emphasised.
Mr Muntaka disclosed that security agencies would intensify intelligence-led operations, targeted searches and surveillance of criminal networks to identify and confiscate illicit firearms.
“Individuals found in possession of illegal weapons would face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law,” he said.
He further announced that the government would activate an informant system to encourage citizens to provide credible information on illegal firearms, while efforts to strengthen border security and combat arms trafficking would be intensified.
The Minister revealed that the government would organise the 8th Arms Destruction Ceremony on 9th July 2026 at the Police Depot in Accra, where over 2,000 seized and surrendered firearms are expected to be destroyed.
The Minister also reiterated that private security organisations are prohibited from possessing or using firearms under existing legislation.
He warned that any company found using weapons registered in the names of individuals for corporate security operations would face sanctions, including the possible revocation of operating licences.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
