Minister-Designate for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has raised concerns about the alarming rise in illegal firearms in Ghana, describing it as a significant threat to national security.
Speaking during his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Friday, January 24, the Asawase MP outlined a proactive plan to recover illegal weapons while promoting voluntary compliance.
The proposed initiative includes an amnesty programme allowing individuals to return illegal firearms without fear of prosecution and a cash-for-firearms exchange scheme to incentivize compliance.
Muntaka highlighted the serious implications of the widespread availability of illegal firearms, citing the rise in violent crimes, armed robberies, and community conflicts fueled by the unchecked circulation of weapons.
He stressed that reclaiming illegal firearms from private hands is not just a law enforcement issue but a critical step toward enhancing public safety and fostering peace.
“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.”
