By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak (MP), has addressed the media on the government’s newly declared Gun Amnesty Programme and additional measures aimed at reducing the circulation of illicit arms across the country.
The press briefing, held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, took place at the Information Services Department (ISD) in Accra and brought together security chiefs, representatives of civil society, and members of the media.
In his address, the Interior Minister reaffirmed government’s commitment to tackling the growing threat of illegal firearms, describing the proliferation of unregistered weapons as a major national concern with implications for crime, communal conflicts, and national stability.
Hon. Mohammed-Mubarak formally announced that the nationwide Gun Amnesty Exercise will run from December 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026, offering citizens the opportunity to surrender illegal or unregistered firearms without facing arrest, prosecution, or any punitive action.
He explained that the goal of the amnesty is not to punish but to encourage voluntary compliance that would help remove dangerous weapons from circulation.
“This government is taking decisive action to prevent the rise of armed crime and ensure that every Ghanaian feels safe. The amnesty period provides a rare opportunity for those holding unlicensed guns to do the right thing,” he stated.
The Minister also revealed that arrangements have been made to provide specialized training programmes for individuals who legally possess firearms. These trainings, he noted, will focus on proper handling, safe storage, responsible usage, and compliance with firearms regulations.
According to him, the training is intended to reduce accidental discharges, misuse of weapons, and the risks associated with improper firearm management.
Security agencies, including the Ghana Police Service and the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, are expected to coordinate with accredited firearms instructors to deliver the sessions nationwide.
Beyond the amnesty, Hon. Mohammed-Mubarak announced several additional interventions, including:
Intensified border patrols to prevent smuggling of weapons
Enhanced intelligence operations targeting known hotspots for illegal arms trade
Strengthened collaboration with regional and international security partners
Public education campaigns on the dangers of illicit firearms
He emphasized that after the amnesty period, security agencies will embark on more aggressive enforcement operations, and anyone found with an illegal weapon will face the full rigour of the law.
The Minister appealed to traditional leaders, community groups, religious bodies, and civil society organizations to support the sensitization process and encourage citizens to take advantage of the amnesty window.
He reiterated that national security is a shared responsibility and urged all Ghanaians to play their part in making communities safer.
The government is expected to begin nationwide outreach and media campaigns in the coming days as preparations for the amnesty officially commence.
