Infiltration of small arms and weapons

Assin Fosu {C/R}, Aug. 16, GNA - The Deputy Minister of the Interior, Mr Kobina Tahil Hammond, has appealed to personnel of the Ghana Immigration Service to be vigilant and devise measures to enhance their border patrol activities in order to apprehend smugglers of small arms and light weapons into the country.

He said there are at least 220,000 small arms in civilian hands and this does not arguer well for the security of the nation, particularly this election year and noted with concern the unfortunate incidents that characterised the just ended limited registration exercise that generated a lot of security interest.

Mr Hammond said this at the passing out of 219 new personnel of the service who underwent four months' training at the Immigration Training School at Assin Fosu.

He told them to consider the interest of the nation paramount and help stem cross border crimes such as smuggling, human and drug trafficking as well as entry into the country through unapproved routes that is on the ascendancy.

Mr Hammond said government recognised the pivotal role of the service and was doing all it could to support it with funds to build official and residential accommodation as well as offer better living conditions and remuneration to motivate them.

He said government had also made provision for the acquisition of vehicles and motor bikes, communication equipment and to provide them with uniforms and accessories. Mr Hammond said a bill to restructure the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) would soon be put before parliament and when approved the role of the service would be expanded. Personnel who excelled during the training were given special awards. Julian Akonnor was adjudged the overall best recruit. Michael Frimpong was adjudged the best in academics, Anthony Kwadjo Amoah, best in physical training, the best female in drill went to Miriam Asamani