Minister-Designate for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has voiced grave concern over the growing proliferation of illegal firearms in Ghana, describing it as a pressing threat to national security.
Appearing before Parliament's Appointments Committee on Friday, January 24, the Asawase Member of Parliament outlined a detailed plan to address the issue. He pledged to implement a proactive initiative aimed at recovering illegal weapons while promoting voluntary compliance.
Central to his proposed strategy is the introduction of an amnesty program, allowing individuals to surrender illegal firearms without fear of prosecution. Additionally, Muntaka plans to launch a firearms-for-cash exchange scheme to incentivize gun owners to turn in their weapons.
Muntaka emphasized the urgent need for action, pointing to the devastating impact of illegal firearms on public safety. He linked the rising prevalence of violent crimes, armed robberies, and communal conflicts to the unchecked circulation of weapons across the country.
He stressed that reclaiming illegal firearms is not merely a matter of law enforcement but a pivotal step in fostering peace and security. “Enhancing public safety requires a united effort to disarm and protect our communities,” he remarked.
If confirmed, Muntaka’s approach signals a determined effort to curtail the spread of illegal firearms and strengthen Ghana’s security framework.
“I can assure that with my team, we will look at recovering illegal firearms because there may even be people who may be having it but may even be afraid that it will be seen on them because there may be a reason when they wanted it but no longer want it.
“We can grant some amnesty window for them to return it and probably look at exchange for cash or some kind and look at exchange of weapons for cash,” he emphasised.