The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national security and preventing the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons, describing the destruction of illegal firearms as a critical step towards safeguarding Ghana’s peace and stability.
The assurance was given during the 8th National Small Arms Destruction Ceremony held at the Police Depot in Tesano, Accra, to commemorate the United Nations International Small Arms Destruction Day.
The event brought together government officials, security agencies and other stakeholders to highlight the need for sustained collaboration in addressing the growing threat posed by illicit small arms and light weapons in Ghana and across the sub-region.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chief of Staff, Mr Julius Debrah, said the destruction of illegal firearms underscored the Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that illicit weapons had no place in Ghanaian communities.
He described the exercise as an important measure to protect national peace, security and development, while commending the public for supporting the Gun Amnesty Programme.
According to him, the programme resulted in the voluntary surrender of more than 4,000 firearms.
Mr Debrah urged citizens to continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting the possession, trafficking and use of illegal firearms to help curb their proliferation.
The Minister for the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, also reiterated the Government’s resolve to strengthen measures aimed at preventing the spread of illicit firearms.
He noted that every weapon destroyed represented one less firearm available to criminals, armed robbers, violent extremists, political vigilantes and other individuals whose activities threaten public safety.
While acknowledging Ghana’s reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful countries, the Minister cautioned that the continued circulation of illicit small arms and light weapons across the sub-region remained a significant security concern.
He said the proliferation of such weapons continued to fuel armed conflicts, organised crime, violent extremism and cross-border criminal activities.
Mr Mohammed-Mubarak called on citizens, traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society organisations and the media to support national efforts to eliminate illicit firearms through increased vigilance, sustained public education and the promotion of a culture of peace.
He stressed that collective action was essential to preserving Ghana’s peace and ensuring the safety and security of communities across the country.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
