The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Samuel Basentale Amadu, has issued a firm warning against the growing number of attacks on immigration officers, especially in border communities. He stressed that such incidents jeopardise national security and endanger the lives of front-line personnel responsible for protecting the country’s borders.
Speaking during a working tour of Kotoka International Airport (KIA), Amadu examined security operations, officer welfare, and the functionality of key systems at Ghana’s busiest entry point. His visit covered arrival and departure counters, biometric screening units, and inter-agency coordination desks, areas central to the country’s border management operations.
‘An Attack on an Officer Is an Attack on National Security’
Amadu noted that the Service is investing heavily in training and self-defense preparedness to better equip officers for the evolving threats they face.
“Our officers are the first line of defense for Ghana’s borders. Any attack on them is an attack on national security. We are ensuring they are well-trained and protected,” he stated.
He revealed that some attacks in recent months have resulted in fatalities, underscoring the need for heightened public cooperation and greater protection for officers operating in high-risk communities.
GIS Board Chairman Calls for Public, Government Support
Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam, Board Chairman of the GIS Governing Council, joined the tour and highlighted logistical constraints hampering operations. He appealed to the public and corporate bodies to support efforts to equip the Service with the tools needed to secure the nation.
“We must all support the government to retool the Service. Logistics remain a major challenge, but steps are being taken to address them,” he said.
Frontline Officers Demand More Tools and Specialized Training
Officers stationed at KIA also voiced concerns, citing the urgent need for advanced training in document fraud detection, human trafficking investigations, and modern screening techniques.
“We need the necessary tools and training to effectively detect fraudulent documents and prevent illegal activities,” one frontline officer said.
They emphasized that the sophistication of transnational crime continues to rise, making continuous training and modern equipment essential.
Infrastructure and Housing Still a Major Challenge
While assuring the public that KIA remains safe due to recent upgrades in screening technology and security systems, Amadu acknowledged resource gaps across the country.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our officers, but infrastructure and housing remain key areas that require urgent attention,” he noted.
Many officers, particularly those in remote border towns, continue to face challenges related to inadequate accommodation, transportation, and operational tools.
GIS Pushes for Modernization and International Alignment
The visit forms part of broader efforts by the GIS leadership to tighten border security, modernize immigration operations, and align Ghana’s border management practices with international standards.
Authorities insist that sustained investment in technology, logistics, training, and officer welfare is crucial to safeguarding Ghana’s borders and effectively combating illegal migration, trafficking, and cross-border crime.
