The Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), Samuel Basentale Amadu, has sounded a strong warning against attacks on immigration officers, particularly in border communities.
He emphasized that such attacks undermine national security and put frontline personnel at risk.
Speaking to the media during a tour of Kotoka International Airport (KIA), Amadu assessed the security operations and working conditions of officers at the country’s busiest entry point.
He noted that officers are now being trained and equipped to better defend themselves while performing their duties.
“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,” the Comptroller General stated.
The delegation’s inspection covered arrival and departure counters, biometric screening systems, and inter-agency coordination desks, highlighting efforts to strengthen border management and improve efficiency.
During the visit, Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam, Board Chairman of the GIS Governing Council, raised concerns about logistical challenges affecting operations.
He appealed to the general public to assist government in equipping the service. Rev. Dr. Stephen Wengam also assured of retooling of the service in coming days.
Frontline officers also appealed for additional resources and advanced training in document fraud detection, human trafficking investigations, and passenger screening techniques.
“We need the necessary tools and training to effectively detect fraudulent documents and prevent illegal activities,” one frontline officer said.
The Comptroller–General reassured the public that KIA remains safe for travelers, thanks to recent upgrades in screening and security systems. However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, including limited logistics and inadequate housing facilities for officers 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,” Amadu noted.
The tour also highlighted the increasing risks faced by immigration personnel, with the Comptroller-General warning that attacks on officers have already resulted in fatalities.
The visit forms part of GIS’s broader efforts to tighten border security, modernize operations, and align Ghana’s immigration services with international standards.
Authorities say continuous investment in training, logistics, and technology is critical to safeguarding the country’s borders and supporting the welfare of frontline officers.
