The Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced the revocation of all permits previously issued for the possession of side arms and firearms, effective Tuesday, 23rd June, 2026.
The decision, he explained, follows growing concerns over firearm-related suicides and accidental shootings involving legally registered weapons.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra on Tuesday, the Minister said the government had identified gaps in the existing firearm registration process and was introducing additional safeguards to ensure that only responsible and qualified individuals are permitted to possess firearms.
“In the past two months, we have witnessed an alarming increase in cases where legally registered firearms have been used to commit suicide. We have also recorded incidents involving accidental discharges resulting in injury and loss of life. These developments require urgent intervention,” he said.
According to him, under the revised licensing framework, all firearm holders will undergo mandatory mental health assessments, drug screening, and firearms competency training before their licences can be renewed or reissued.
He explained that the Mental Health Authority would be responsible for conducting psychological evaluations, while the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) would oversee drug screening requirements. The Ghana Police Service, through its regional commands, would conduct compulsory firearm handling and safety training.
To facilitate compliance, the Government is also considering certifying private shooting ranges to support firearm training across the country.
Mr Muntaka assured existing licence holders that they would not be required to pay a new registration fee in 2026, although minimal charges may apply for the additional assessment and training requirements.
On the issue of firearm use during traditional ceremonies and festivals, the Minister said the government would continue to engage traditional authorities to develop a framework that preserves cultural practices while ensuring public safety.
He indicated that designated individuals involved in ceremonial firing would be trained and certified, while inappropriate weapons would be prohibited at such events.
“We want to ensure that people can attend funerals, festivals and traditional celebrations without fear of injury or death from stray bullets,” he stated.
The Minister also highlighted ongoing investments in border security infrastructure, including advanced surveillance systems, drones, ballistic cameras and weapons detection technologies aimed at preventing the influx of illicit arms into the country.
He noted that Ghana continues to face security challenges arising from instability within the sub-region and emphasised the need for vigilance and cooperation between citizens and security agencies.
Mr Muntaka urged Ghanaians to remain law-abiding, provide credible information to security agencies, and reject all forms of illegality as part of the collective effort to build a safer, more peaceful and gun violence-free Ghana.
Mary Olivia Cobblah, ISD
