Criminal networks using advanced technology to facilitate operations - GIS boss

The Comptroller-General of Immigration (CGI), Samuel Basintale Amadu, has highlighted the growing complexities of dealing with criminal networks in the modern world.

According to him, criminals are increasingly leveraging advanced technology, forged documents, cyber tools and complex financial channels to facilitate their operations across multiple jurisdictions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of a 10-day training aimed at strengthening intelligence-led border management, the Comptroller-General said the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) must adapt to the changing nature of transnational crime and security threats.

“Criminal networks today operate fluidly across multiple jurisdictions, leveraging advanced technology, forged documentation, cyber tools, and complex financial channels to facilitate their operations,” he said.

Mr Amadu said terrorist groups and extremist elements were also exploiting irregular migration routes and vulnerabilities within border systems to move across regions.

He said these emerging threats had made it necessary for the GIS to transition into a fully intelligence-driven institution.

The CGI said the shift would focus on professional data analysis, suspicious behaviour detection and enhanced collaboration among security agencies.

The training, organised in partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), forms part of the 48-month Strengthening and Harmonizing Integrated Border Management Frameworks and Technical (SHIFT) Project.

The initiative has brought together 30 selected frontline officers from various key entry and exit points across the country.

Over the 10-day period, the officers will be introduced to advanced data technologies and modern risk assessment systems to strengthen their ability to conduct institutional risk analysis and detect potential security threats.

The €7.3 million European Union-funded SHIFT Project is being implemented by ICMPD in response to growing security challenges in West Africa.

The project seeks to strengthen border management systems amid concerns over porous borders, the spillover of terrorism from the Sahel and transnational organised crime.