The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Gun Amnesty, Dr. Adams Bonaa, has issued a stern warning to individuals in possession of illegal firearms, urging them to surrender or register their weapons before law enforcement agencies commence full-scale enforcement operations.
Dr. Bonaa made the remarks during a courtesy call by the Gun Amnesty Secretariat on the Asogli State as part of its nationwide sensitisation and public education tour.
The engagement is part of ongoing efforts to educate residents, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders on the importance of voluntarily surrendering illegal firearms or properly registering legally acquired ones in accordance with Ghanaian law.
According to Dr. Bonaa, the Gun Amnesty initiative is a key component of the government’s “Guns Down Ghana” campaign, aimed at reducing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons to strengthen peace and security across the country.
“This amnesty period is an opportunity for everyone in possession of firearms to do the right thing. Those who fail to surrender or register their weapons should not be surprised when the law takes its course,” he cautioned.
He emphasised that the exercise is not meant to punish law-abiding citizens but to promote public safety, prevent crime, and protect lives.
On behalf of the Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, the Deputy Chief of the Asogli State and Chief of Heve, Togbe Anikpi III, commended the National Gun Amnesty Secretariat for the visit and the educational outreach to residents.
Togbe Anikpi III described the initiative as timely and necessary, highlighting that proper firearm registration is critical to safeguarding lives and maintaining peace in communities.
“It is important for our people to understand why firearms must be properly registered. This is about protecting lives and ensuring security,” he said.
He also appealed to the Minister for the Interior, through the Gun Amnesty Secretariat, to consider extending the deadline for the amnesty exercise. According to him, extending the deadline beyond the initial January 15 date to the end of January or February 2026 would allow more time for the information to reach all communities before enforcement begins.
The National Gun Amnesty Secretariat continues its nationwide tour, engaging traditional leaders, opinion leaders, and the public to encourage voluntary compliance and support national efforts to curb gun-related violence.
READ ALSO:
