The Auditor General has raised serious concerns about airport security in Ghana after revealing that a large number of firearms and ammunition were intercepted during passenger screening in 2023. According to the audit findings, more than 2,000 rounds of ammunition and several firearms were detected at the country’s airports within the year, highlighting significant weaknesses in existing security measures.
The issue came to light during a review of the Auditor General’s report by Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee. The report noted that although weapons and ammunition were seized and referred to the appropriate security agencies, some passengers involved were still allowed to continue their journeys. This situation was attributed to the absence of a clear and comprehensive policy governing how such cases should be handled at airports.
Members of the committee expressed concern that allowing passengers found with weapons to board flights poses a potential threat to passenger safety, airline staff, and airport personnel. The audit described this practice as a serious security loophole that could expose the aviation sector to avoidable risks if not addressed urgently.
Airport authorities explained that passengers carrying firearms are expected to declare them to aviation security officials. Licensed weapons may be transported under strict conditions, while unlicensed weapons are confiscated and handed over to law enforcement agencies. However, the audit report pointed out that inconsistencies in enforcement and policy gaps weaken the effectiveness of these procedures.
The Auditor General recommended the development of clear national guidelines to regulate the handling of firearms and ammunition at airports. Strengthening these policies, the report noted, would improve aviation safety and ensure uniform enforcement across all airports in the country.
