Prosper Bani hints at establishment of two state of the art forensic labs at GAFS inaugural congress

Ghana’s National Security Advisor, Prosper Bani, has announced plans for the establishment of two state-of-the-art forensic laboratories to strengthen the country’s crime investigation capacity.

Mr. Bani made the announcement at the inaugural congress of the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences (GAFS), held in Accra under the theme: “Modernizing Crime Investigation in Ghana: Bridging Traditional Methods with Forensic Investigations through Capacity Building.” The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and law enforcement officials to chart a new course for forensic science in the country.

His remarks come as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the tragic Obuasi helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including Environment Minister Murtala Mohammed and Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah. The incident, he noted, exposed the country’s limited forensic capacity.

“In this era, the imperative to modernize crime investigations is both urgent and undeniable. Forensic science—through DNA analysis, digital forensics, trace evidence, ballistics, forensic toxicology, and biometric identification—has revolutionized the capacity of law enforcement agencies worldwide to uncover the truth with unparalleled accuracy,” Mr. Bani said.

He noted that Ghana currently has only one forensic laboratory in Accra, a situation that leaves the country vulnerable in complex investigations. “We do lack some infrastructure and equipment to be able to do our investigations quickly and in a very transparent manner,” he admitted.

Mr. Bani revealed that government is responding with a concrete plan. “To this end, government has proposed the establishment of two state-of-the-art forensic laboratories, in addition to what exists now, to serve as national centres for scientific investigation,” he announced.

He explained that the new facilities will be strategically located and equipped with advanced capabilities in DNA analysis, digital forensics, ballistics, trace evidence, forensic toxicology, and other specialised fields, thereby strengthening the operational capacity of Ghana’s security agencies.

While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure, the National Security Advisor stressed that people remain central to effective justice delivery. “Technology is indispensable, but it is people who give life to institutions. Forensic laboratories, data systems, and investigative equipment cannot in themselves deliver justice. They must be operated by men and women of knowledge, skill, and integrity,” he said.

He further emphasised the need for legislation to govern forensic practice and safeguard citizens’ rights. “Forensic evidence, while powerful, must be subject to strict legal and ethical frameworks. The credibility of forensic science rests on its reliability, transparency, and accountability,” Mr. Bani noted.

Concluding his address, he reminded participants that the journey ahead is not optional but necessary. “The journey towards modernizing crime investigations in Ghana is not one of choice but necessity. The challenges of the 21st century demand that we combine the wisdom of our traditional methods with the precision of forensic innovation, guided by capacity building, regulation, and strong craftsmanship,” he said.

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